White et al reported criteria for the diagnosis of adult malnutrition. One set of criteria is intended for evaluation of a patient with a chronic illness. The authors are from University of Tennessee, Pennsylvania State University, Mt. Carmel West Hospital Columbus and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Patient selection: adult with chronic illness
Parameters:
(1) energy intake
(2) weight loss
(3) body fat
(4) muscle mass
(5) fluid accumulation
(6) grip strength
Parameter
Moderate Malnutrition
Severe Malnutrition
energy intake
< 75% of estimated requirements for >= 1 month
<= 50% of estimated requirements for >= 1 month
weight loss
< 10% at 6 months; < 20% at 1 year
>= 10% at 6 months; >= 20% at 1 year
body fat
mild or moderate
severe
muscle mass
mild or moderate
severe
fluid accumulation
mild or moderate
severe
grip strength
NA
measurably reduced
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