Blum et al evaluated a classification of cancer patients based on weight change and body mass index. The authors are from Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim University Hospital, University of Aberdeen, Oslo University Hospital, University of Alberta, University of Edinburgh and Palliative Center Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen.
Parameters:
(1) weight change in kilograms in past 6 months
(2) weight change in percent in past 6 months
(3) body mass index in kilograms per square meter
Weight Change in Kilograms
Weight Change in Percent
BMI
Group
gain
NA
NA
0
+/- 1 kg
NA
NA
0
> 1 kg loss
<= 5%
NA
I
NA
> 5%
NA
II
NA
> 2%
< 20
II
NA
> 15%
< 23
III
NA
> 20%
< 27
III
Group
Cachexia Descriptor
0
none
I
pre-cachexia
II
cachexia
III
refractory
Additional measures are needed to stratify patients and may include:
(1) serum CRP concentration
(2) skeletal muscle mass
(3) loss of appetite
The authors emphasize the need for identification of pre-cachexia since interventions may be more effective in this group.
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