[Characteristics and mechanisms of tumor anorexia].

Tumor anorexia can be defined as a continuous reduction in dietary intake with a steadily increased cost of energy of the organism. A possible basis for this nutritional imbalance during the course of the illness is provided by metabolic dysfunction, changes in taste, neuroendocrine alterations and behavioral factors. At the present time no uniform explanation exists, thus only adjuvant therapeutic strategies can be deducted.