What is Cachexia?

Cachexia, also known as marasmus or wasting syndrome, is a manifestation of extreme weight loss and exhaustion in patients with advanced malignancies. The specific manifestations include extreme emaciation, deep-set eye sockets, dry and loose skin, protruding ribs, and boat-shaped abdomen, which is commonly described as a bony appearance. According to statistics, approximately half of cancer patients suffer from excessive weight loss, and 10% to 25% of these patients die due to cachexia. It is mostly caused by cancer and other severe chronic consumptive diseases.

The pathogenic factors lead to changes in the body's metabolism through various pathways, resulting in weakened oxidative processes, accumulation of incompletely oxidized products, and inadequate utilization of nutrients. Cachexia can be seen in various diseases, including tumors, AIDS, severe trauma, post-surgical conditions, malabsorption, and severe sepsis. Among these, cachexia associated with tumors is the most common, known as tumor cachexia.

1. Nutritional status assessment: Progressive weight loss over a period of 3 months, with a weight loss of ≥7.5% compared to the original weight (at diagnosis) or a body mass index (BMI) < 80%.

2. Medical history: Chronic consumptive disease history accompanied by anorexia (poor appetite, food intake reduced by 1/3 compared to healthy times), and fatigue.

3. Blood tests: Routine blood tests, liver and kidney function tests, and electrolyte tests. Total protein < 55g/l, albumin < 35g/l, and prealbumin < 250mg/l.