The cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome.

PURPOSE

To review the research related to the anorexia-cachexia syndrome in patients with cancer, with attention to the etiology and symptomatic treatment.

DESIGN

A comprehensive literature review using MEDLINE.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The anorexia-cachexia syndrome is a common problem in advanced cancer. Although many possible etiologies have been investigated, the cause has not been determined. Appropriate clinical evaluation is necessary to identify those patients who may respond to available, symptomatic treatments.