cachexia
Pronunciation: kuh-KEK-see-uh
Severe weight loss and muscle wasting syndrome commonly seen in advanced cancer patients.
Full Definition
Cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by involuntary weight loss, muscle wasting, and weakness that affects up to 80% of patients with advanced cancer. Unlike simple starvation, cachexia involves systemic inflammation and cannot be reversed by nutritional support alone. The condition significantly impacts patient prognosis, quality of life, and treatment tolerance. Diagnostic criteria typically include weight loss of at least 5% over six months or weight loss of at least 2% in patients with BMI less than 20 kg/m².
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with general malnutrition or anorexia, but cachexia specifically involves metabolic changes and muscle wasting.
In Context
- "The patient's cachexia prevented enrollment in the phase II trial due to poor performance status." — Clinical trial eligibility assessment
- "Treatment-related cachexia was documented in 45% of patients receiving the combination regimen." — Clinical study report