Can�t eat, won�t eat  (The Lancet Oncology)

November, 2003

Long-lasting anorexia compromises host defences and ultimately delays recovery�
 

Anorexia�the loss of desire to eat�is a response to tumour growth experienced by many patients with cancer. Although initially beneficial to fighting the tumour, this syndrome rapidly becomes damaging, leading to malnutrition, fatigue, and high rates of morbidity and mortality. In the November issue of The Lancet Oncology, Alessandro Laviano and colleagues discuss the pathogenesis of anorexia in patients with cancer. They focus on the role of the hypothalamic neuronal signalling pathways that modulate energy intake and review therapeutic strategies designed to counteract these pathogenic processes. The authors conclude that cancer anorexia can be treated effectively; however, whether symptom improvement equates to long-term survival benefit remains unknown.
 

for complete literature, http://oncology.thelancet.com/