Assessment of nutritional status and fluid deficits in advanced cancer

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Abstract
Malnutrition and cachexia are frequent manifestations of cancer and are major contributors to morbidity and mortality. The assessment of nutrition status in cancer patients can be easily accomplished. The first step is to record a complete medical history and to perform a thorough clinical examination to uncover signs of nutritional deficiency. Simple and inexpensive tests are available to assess the body composition, such as: anthropometric measurements, skinfold thickness, arm muscle circumference and area, and weight and body mass index (BMI). Biochemical measurements are also available, such as serum albumin, transferring, and prealbumin.

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