Weight loss in patients with advanced cancer: effects, causes, and potential management

Abstract

Purpose of review: The past 2 years have yielded interesting observations that have challenged our understanding of and approach to treating cancer-associated weight loss in patients with advanced, incurable malignancies. This review provides an update of such observations and places them within the context of previous work.

Recent findings: The mechanisms that underlie cancer-associated weight loss remain elusive, but recent studies suggest that this weight loss might be mediated by downregulation of insulin-like growth factor-1; macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 has also been implicated. Although recent clinical trials have not provided major additions to the armamentarium of palliative approaches, such laboratory-based findings provide targets for future palliative trials.

Summary: The limited palliative options available to patients with cancer-associated weight loss underscore the need for continued laboratory and clinical investigation.