From the Guidelines
Abnormal weight loss is typically defined as more than 5% involuntary weight loss over 3 months. This definition is based on the ESPEN guidelines for nutrition screening 2002, which suggests that recent weight loss can be obtained from the patient’s history or previous measurements in medical records 1. According to this guideline, weight loss of more than 5% over 3 months may reveal undernutrition and predict further nutritional deterioration.
Key Points to Consider
- Involuntary weight loss is a significant indicator of potential health problems
- A weight loss of more than 5% over 3 months is considered abnormal
- This type of weight loss can signal underlying conditions such as digestive disorders, endocrine disorders, infections, or mental health conditions
- Symptoms accompanying abnormal weight loss may include fatigue, loss of appetite, and digestive changes
- Early detection and treatment of the underlying condition are crucial for preventing complications and improving outcomes, as noted in the context of nutrition screening 1.
Clinical Approach
When evaluating abnormal weight loss, a healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination, review the patient's medical history, and order appropriate tests to determine the cause. The goal is to identify and address the underlying condition causing the weight loss, thereby preventing further complications and improving the patient's quality of life.
From the Research
Definition of Abnormal Weight Loss
Abnormal weight loss is defined as a loss of weight of at least 5% in 6 months, as stated in the study 2. This definition is used to describe unintentional weight loss, which can be caused by various factors, including somatic, functional, and iatrogenic causes.
Causes of Abnormal Weight Loss
The causes of abnormal weight loss can be diverse, ranging from malabsorption to malignancies, as mentioned in the study 2. Although malignancies are a rare cause of weight loss in primary care, they can be present in up to 30% of cases in secondary care.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnostic work-up and treatment of abnormal weight loss may involve referrals to medical specialists, as well as the role of dieticians in screening and treatment, as discussed in the study 2. In some cases, treatment may be necessary with high caloric dietary foods, especially when functional decline is obvious.
Other Factors
Other factors, such as metformin use, may also be related to weight loss, as mentioned in the studies 3, 4, 5, and 6. However, these studies do not directly address the definition or causes of abnormal weight loss, but rather focus on the effects of metformin on thyroid function and cancer incidence.
- Key points about abnormal weight loss:
- Defined as a loss of weight of at least 5% in 6 months 2
- Can be caused by various factors, including somatic, functional, and iatrogenic causes 2
- May require diagnostic work-up and treatment, including referrals to medical specialists and dieticians 2
- Metformin use may be related to weight loss, but this is not directly addressed in the studies 3, 4, 5, and 6