Quality-of-life improvements and nutritional status are important in the management of cancer patients, but are often overlooked. Treatments for anorexia and cachexia are often attempted during the advanced stages of the disease. Cytokines and tumor-derived factors appear have a significant role in the pathogenesis of anorexia and cachexia. Laviano et al. discuss the pathogenesis and diagnosis of cachexia and anorexia, focusing on the dietary and drug interventions, which can prolong survival and positively influence quality of life for cancer patients.
- Alessandro Laviano
- Michael M Meguid
- Filippo Rossi-Fanelli
