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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
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459
Appetite
Appetite can be suppressed because of the presence of acute or chronic illness. Cachexia will result from in­adequate energy intake and pathological wasting of muscle or fat tissue. The key symptom in cachexia is anorexia, or loss of appetite. Psychosocial factors, such as anxiety or depression, can contribute to a loss of appetite or lifestyle habits that include skipping meals or eating foods of poor nutritional value.
Eating Habits/Nutritional Adequacy and Physical Activity
Weight maintenance is a balance of energy expended and energy consumed. General healthy dietary guide­lines can be found in the Dietary Guidelines for Ameri­cans (Box 39-1) and on www.choosemyplate.gov. Daily caloric needs vary by age, gender, pregnancy, and level of physical activity. Athletes in training may underestimate their caloric needs (Box 39-2).
Excess intake of fruit juices may decrease a child’s appetite and cause weight loss. Conversely, excess in­take of fruit juices with high caloric content may cause weight gain.
Breastfeeding
Observing and discussing issues regarding breastfeed­ing with the mother may reveal important information. Infants should be breastfed 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period. Breastfeeding requires more energy expenditure from the infant, and occasionally infants fall asleep while feeding and thus do not receive an adequate amount of breast milk. Nipple soreness caused by im­proper positioning and/or poor latching or unlatching
can lead to a diminished milk supply. Maternal hydra­tion is important for adequate milk supply.
Formula-Fed Infant
Investigating what formula the infant is being fed and how the formula is prepared is important. Formulas come in powder and liquid forms. Powder formula re­quires reconstitution with water. Liquid formula comes in two forms: concentrated (requiring the addition of water) and ready-to-feed. Reviewing how the formula is prepared is important to determine whether incorrect preparation is causing weight loss.
What cues indicate a pathological process?
Key Questions
l
Have you had a fever or any signs of illness?
l
Have you ever been diagnosed with cancer?
l
Have you had a change in urinary or bowel habits?
l
Do you experience fatigue?
l
In a room where others are comfortable, are you
often too cold or too warm?
l
Have you had a change in appetite or thirst?
l
If a child: Has your child’s appetite changed?
l
If a child: Has your child’s activity level changed?
Acute or Chronic Conditions
Fever associated fatigue and lymphadenopathy may indicate an infection. Chronic conditions, such as cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, anemia, fatigue, weakness, change in moles, pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding, breast discharge, or headaches,
Box 39-1
•  Balance calories with physical activity to manage weight
•  Consume  more  of  certain  foods  and  nutrients  such  as  fruits, vegetables,  whole  grains,  fat-free  and  low-fat  dairy  products, and seafood
•  Consume  fewer  foods  with  sodium  (salt),  saturated  fats,  trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, and refined grains
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SPECIFIC POPULATION GROUPS
•  Those who need to lose weight.  Aim   for   a  slow,  steady  weight  loss by decreasing calorie  intake  while maintain­ing  an  adequate  nutrient  intake and  increasing  physical  activity.
•  Overweight children. Reduce the  rate of body weight gain  while allowing growth  and  development.  Consult  a  health 
From US Department of  Health and Human Services, US Department of Agriculture: Dietary guidelines for Americans, 2010. Available online at 
www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2010.asp
Key Recommendations for Maintaining a Healthy Weight
care provider  before  placing a child on  a  weight-reducing  diet.
•  Pregnant women. Ensure appropriate weight gain as spec­ified by a health care provider.
•  Breastfeeding women.  Moderate  weight  reduction  is  safe and  does not compromise weight gain  of the nursing  infant.
•  Overweight adults and overweight children with chronic diseases and/or on medication.  Consult  a  health  care  provider  about  weight  loss  strategies  before  starting  a  weight-reducing  program  to  ensure  appropriate  manage­ment of other health conditions.
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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
Box 39-2
Engage  in  regular  physical  activity  and  reduce  sedentary   activities  to  promote  health,  psychological  well-being,  and  healthy body weight.
•  To reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood: Engage  in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activ­ity, above usual activity, at work or home  on most days of  the week.
•  For most  people,  greater  health  benefits  can  be  obtained  by engaging in physical activity  of more vigorous intensity  or longer duration.
•  To  help  manage  body  weight  and  prevent  gradual,  un­healthy body weight gain in adulthood: Engage in approxi­mately 60 minutes of moderate-  to  vigorous-intensity  ac­tivity on most days of the week while not exceeding caloric  intake requirements.
•  To sustain weight loss in adulthood: Participate in at  least  60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity physical activ­ity while  not exceeding caloric intake requirements. Some  people  may  need  to  consult  with  a  health  care  provider   before participating in this level of activity.
From US Department of  Health and Human Services, US Department of Agriculture: Dietary guidelines for Americans, 2010. Available online at 
www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2010.asp.
can contribute to unintentional weight loss. Crohn disease is an inammatory bowel disease that can be associated with reduced appetite.
Unintentional weight loss is a red ag for cancer occurrence or recurrence. Weight loss can occur from loss of appetite and decreased caloric intake or from the body’s inability to absorb nutrients because of the cancer.
Key Recommendations for Physical Activity
Achieve physical fitness by including cardiovascular condition­ing, stretching exercises for flexibility, and resistance exercises  or calisthenics for muscle strength and endurance.
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SPECIFIC POPULATION GROUPS
•  Children and adolescents.  Engage  in  at least 60 minutes  of  physical  activity  on  most,  preferably  all,  days  of  the  week.
•  Pregnant women.  In  the  absence  of  medical   or obstetric  complications, incorporate 30 minute s or more of moder­ate-intensity  physical  activity on most,  if  not  all,  days  of  the  week.  Avoid  activities  with  a  high  risk  of  fa lling  or  abdominal trauma.
•  Breastfeeding women.  Be  aware  that  neither  acute  nor  regular  exercise  adversely  affects  the  mother’s  ability  to  successfully breastfeed.
•  Older adults.  Participate  in  regular  physical  activity  to  reduce  functional  declines  associated  with  aging  and   to achieve the other benefits of physical activity identified  for all adults.
insidious and involves every organ system. A history will reveal symptoms of lethargy, dry skin, dry and brittle hair, cold intolerance, deepening of voice, and facial pufness. Cushing syndrome is a result of pro­longed exposure to excessive levels of glucocorticoid cortisol, which has a catabolic effect on most tissues. Muscle wasting and weakness are caused by general­ized protein catabolism.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease caused by insulin secretion de­ciency and insulin resistance resulting in elevated blood glucose levels that do not allow nutrients to enter cells. Along with weight loss, untreated diabetes is often associated with increased hunger, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.
Endocrine Disorders
Hyperthyroidism speeds up metabolism, thus burning more calories. It is the most common thyroid function disorder. Symptoms include trembling, insomnia, and hair loss.
In hypothyroidism, thyroid hormones are insuf­cient. In developing countries, it is most often because of iodine deciency; in the United States, autoimmune processes are the major cause. Onset of symptoms is
Appetite/Activity Level Change
A change in an infant or child’s appetite and activity level is a good indicator of illness. Appetite can decrease with an inactive lifestyle or the presence of chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, or other conditions that might be exacerbated by eating.
Are emotional issues contributing to weight loss?
Key Questions
l
Have you recently had a stressful event in your life?
How are you coping?
l
Do you or anyone in your family have a problem
with anxiety or depression?
l
How are you doing in school or at work?
l
If a child: Is the child gaining weight appropriately?
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Psychosocial Factors
Emotions have a big impact on appetite and eating
behavior. One reaction to extreme stress or depression
may be a loss of appetite. Individuals may have pat-
terns of coping with stress by controlling food intake.
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are eating disorders
most often diagnosed in young females. With these
two disorders, despite the low or normal weight, the
individual perceives herself or himself as overweight.
Anorexia nervosa carries a high risk of complications
caused by electrolyte imbalances.
Failure to Thrive
Failure to thrive in infants may have a nonorganic
etiology. Causes include but are not limited to care-
taker’s employment status, social isolation, family
stress, substance abuse, postpartum depression, and
poor parenting skills.
What other symptoms might help narrow the possibilities?
Key Questions
l
When was your last cancer screening?
l
If a child: Has your child recently switched to solid
food?
l
Do you have a family history of cystic brosis (CF)?
l
Does anyone in your household have a history of
tuberculosis?
Cancer Screening
Cancer screening recommendations vary by gender
and age and include colon cancer screening, and for
women, screening mammography for breast cancer
and Pap smears/human papilloma virus (HPV) tests
for cervical cancer screening. Other cancer screening
will depend on associated symptoms and history of
risk factors and may include skin, lung, and for men,
prostate. The United States Preventive Services Task
Force (USPSTF) conducts rigorous assessments of
the scientic evidence for the effectiveness of a range
of clinical preventive services, including screening,
counseling, and preventive medications (www.ahrq.
gov/clinic/uspstx.htm). Lack of regular screening
places patients at an increased risk for undetected
cancer.
Diet Change
Infants who were on formula or breast milk but
switched to solid food may exhibit malabsorption
conditions (such as lactose intolerance or celiac
disease) that can cause weight loss or slowed weight gain.
Family History
The CF gene is autosomal recessive. Four percent of white people in the United States are estimated to be carriers (heterozygous) of the CF gene. CF may pres­ent as lack of weight gain between the rst and sixth months.
Tuberculosis is often associated with reduced appe­tite and weight loss and is contracted among individuals who are exposed to an active infection, especially within a family or household.
What self-treatment was used? Did it help?
Key Questions
l
Are you taking any prescribed or over-the-counter
preparations to lose weight?
l
How would you describe your eating habits and di-
etary practices?
Medication History
There are numerous weight loss drugs on the market and many of them contain ephedrine, a stimulant that suppresses appetite. These drugs can be associated with cardiac arrhythmia and blood pressure elevation. In general, drugs to lose weight are not commonly prescribed but are readily available over the counter. Individuals may use fasting or purging as a method of rapid weight loss; fasting is also often done as a reli­gious or spiritual practice.
Some drugs cause an altered taste sensation and decreased appetite. Maternal ingestion of drugs while nursing may affect breast milk supply. Dopamine agonists, such as cabergoline, reduce prolactin and are sometimes used therapeutically to stop lactation. Dopamine antagonists, such as metoclopramide and most antipsychotics, may increase prolactin and milk production. Other drugs that have been associated with hyperprolactinemia include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and opioids.
How serious is this situation? Is this a recent change?
Key Questions
l
How long have you been concerned about your
weight loss?
l
Is anyone else concerned about your weight loss?
l
What is your ideal or usual weight?
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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
Validate Weight Change
A careful history may document changes in activity
lightweight. Note if the person was weighed with or
without shoes. level or a precipitating incident before weight loss was noticed as a problem.
Concern About Weight Loss
Anorexic patients do not believe they have a weight loss problem and have a morbid fear of weight gain. Often family members or friends become concerned and refer the patient to be evaluated.
Ideal or Usual Weight
Normal or ideal weight for age and gender can be checked against actuarial tables, such as the 1999 Met­ropolitan Height and Weight Tables for Men and Women (http://www.bcbst.com/mpmanual/hw.htm). Continued unintended weight loss noted for more than 6 months should be evaluated. Weight can be veried by using a reliable weight scale. Clothing should be
Table 39-1
The estimates are rounded to the nearest 200 calories. An individual’s calorie needs may be higher or lower than these 
average estimates.
SEX AGE (YEARS) SEDENTARY MODERATELY ACTIVE ACTIVE
Child 2-3 1000 1000-1400 Female 4-8 1200  1400-1600 1400-1800
Male 4-8 1400 1400-1600 1600-2000
From US Department of  Health and Human  Services,  US Department of Agriculture: Dietary guidelines for Americans, 2010. Available online at 
www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2010.asp.
*
Based on Estimated Energy Requirements (EER) from the Institute of Medicine Dietary Reference Intakes Macronutrients Report, 2002, calculated  by gender, age, and activity level for reference-sized individuals. “Reference size,” as determined by the Institute of Medicine, is based on median  height and weight for ages up to age 18 years and median height and weight for that height to give a BMI of 21.5 for adult females and 22.5 for  adult males.
Sedentary means a lifestyle  that includes only  light  physical activity associated with typical day-to-day life.
Moderately active means a  lifestyle that includes  physical  activity equivalent to walking about 1.5 to 3 miles per day at 3 to 4 miles per hour, in  addition to the light  physical activity associated  with  typical day-to-day life.
§
Active means a lifestyle that includes physical activity equivalent to walking more than 3 miles/day at 3 to 4 miles/hr, in addition to the light physical  activity associated with typical day-to-day life. The calorie ranges shown  are to accommodate  needs  of different ages within the group. For children and adolescents, more calories are needed at  older ages. For adults,  fewer calories are  needed  at older ages.
Estimated Calorie Needs/Day (in kilocalories) by Age, Gender, and Physical Activity Level
511
511
*
9-13 1600 1600-2000 1800-2200 14-18 1800 2000 2400 19-30 2000 2000-2200 2400 31-50 1800 2000 2200
1600 1800 2000-2200
9-13 1800 1800-2200 2000-2600 14-18 2200 2400-2800 2800-3200 19-30 2400 2600-2800 3000 31-50 2200 2400-2800 2800-3200
2000 2200-2400 2400-2800
Unexplained Weight Gain
Is the weight gain explained by diet and exercise habits?
Key Questions
l
Can you describe what you eat in a typical day?
l
Has your eating pattern changed?
l
Can you describe your level of physical activity?
Balance of Energy Intake and Expenditure
Maintaining an ideal body weight depends on achiev­ing a balance of energy intake and energy expenditure (Table 39-1). Calorie intake can exceed expenditure when a person consumes large quantities of food and food with high calorie content but gets little aerobic exercise. Factors that contribute to inactivity are sed­entary jobs, television watching, and reliance on the
ACTIVITY LEVEL
†,‡,§
e
1000-1400
automobile. Environmental and genetic factors con-
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tribute to a small percentage of cases of obesity.
Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
l
Have you noticed any other symptoms or changes in
463
your appearance?
Is the weight gain associated with aging?
Key Questions
l
What is your age?
l
For females: When was your last menstrual period?
Aging
Normal aging is associated with slower metabolism and reduced energy requirements.
Menopause
Menopause is dened as the absence of a menstrual period for 1 year. About 90% of menopausal women gain some weight between the ages of 35 and 55 with an average age of 51 years. Hormones have a direct impact on appetite, metabolism, and fat storage. Lower levels of progesterone, androgen, and testosterone con­tribute to lower metabolism and weight gain.
Could weight gain be related to other behaviors?
Key Questions
l
How much alcohol do you consume in a week or a
day?
l
Do you smoke? If so, how much do you smoke?
How long have you smoked? At what age did you start smoking? Have you recently quit?
l
Do you take any medications?
Alcohol and Smoking
Drinking multiple glasses or bottles of alcohol daily or weekly will increase calorie intake. Many adults will gain 5 to 10 lb in the rst few months after quitting smoking and report an increased appetite. Adults at greatest risk for excessive weight gain with smoking cessation are those who smoke more and are less physically active.
Medications
Corticosteroids, lithium, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, and tricyclic antidepressants may lead to uid retention.
Could this be caused by an endocrine disorder?
Key Questions
l
Has the weight gain been sudden or gradual?
l
How much do you weigh now compared to a year
ago?
Acuity of Weight Gain
Women who are premenopausal may note gradual weight gain over a few years. Some medications, such as b-blockers, corticosteroids, and antidepressants, are associated with weight gain. Edema from congestive heart failure or renal failure can cause weight gain in a few days or weeks.
Endocrine Symptoms
Hypothyroidism is associated with fatigue, constipation, and inability to tolerate cold temperatures. Cushing syndrome is associated with truncal weight gain, moon facies, and a “buffalo hump.” Both of these disorders may develop over an extended period of time. Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with obesity and hirsutism.
DIAGNOSTIC REASONING: FOCUSED PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
A thorough health history and general physical exami­nation, including screening for psychosocial causes (see Chapter 4), will help to identify behavioral risk factors or a pattern of associated symptoms that suggest a systemic disorder.
Note General Appearance
Observe the patient entering the room. Especially note the t of clothing as well as general hygiene and signs of stress or anxiety.
When examining an infant, observe interaction with the caregiver. Failure-to-thrive infants may avoid eye contact, may not smile or make sounds, and have poor interaction with their environment. The infant may also prefer not to be cuddled and be difcult to comfort and may appear withdrawn even from the caregiver.
Take Vital Signs
Vital signs will provide information on cardiovascular and respiratory function. Height and weight can be compared to actuarial tables to see norms for weight by age and gender. Calculate BMI. Bradycardia may indicate hypothyroidism; tachycardia may indicate anemia, dehydration, or hyperthyroidism. Fever may indicate infection.
Weigh and Measure Newborn
A decrease in weight of more than 8% necessitates follow up within 48 hours, and a bilirubin level should
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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE
Does Screening for Obesity in Adults Have an Impact
on Long-Term Health Outcomes?
The United  States Preventive Services  Task Force (USPSTF)  found  adequate  evidence  that  intensive,  multicomponent  behavioral interventions for obese adults can lead to an aver­age weight loss of 4 to 7 kg (8.8 to 15.4 lb) in the first year  with 12  to 26 treatment sessions compared  with little or  no  weight loss in  a  control  group.  These  interventions  also  im­prove  glucose  tolerance  and  other  physiological  risk  factors  for  cardiovascular  disease.  The  USPSTF  found  inadequate  direct evidence about the effectiveness of these interventions  on  long-term  health  outcomes  (e.g.,  death,  cardiovascular 
Data from Moyer VA, U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: Screening for and  management of obesity in  adults: US Preventive Services Task Force  recommendation statement, Ann Intern Med 157:373, 2012.
be drawn to assess for hyperbilirubinemia. A loss of more than 10% of birth weight warrants careful assessment of possible causes and consideration of hospital admission.
Assess Mental Status
The major cognitive changes to detect as related to weight loss or gain are dementia and depression (see Chapter 9). Dementia can be assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination (see Figure 9-1) and distin­guished from depression (see Box 9-1). Screen for the presence of an eating disorder.
Conduct a Comprehensive Physical Examination
Assess the Skin
Examine the skin for intactness, turgor, and presence of lesions to determine hydration status and overall nutrition status. Hypothyroidism is associated with dry, aky skin; skin darkening occurs with Addison disease.
Assess the Heart
Palpate the anterior thorax for the point of maximal impulse, lifts, and heaves. Auscultate for adventitious sounds (see Chapter 8).
Examine the Head and Neck
Assess the head and neck for presence of lymphade­nopathy. Moon facies, also called moon face, indicates Cushing syndrome. Palpate the thyroid for masses or asymmetry.
Assess the condition of the teeth and gums. Test the patient’s ability to swallow using water or test for the gag reex. Patients with diabetes may have xanthomas associated with hyperlipidemia.
disease, and hospitalizations). The USPSTF  concluded  with  moderate  certainty  that  screening  for  obesity  in  adults  has   a  moderate  net  benefit.  There  is  also  benefit  to  offering  or  referring obese adults to intensive behavioral interventions to  improve  weight  status  and  other  risk  factors  for  important  health  outcomes.  The  USPSTF  recommends  that  clinicians  screen  adults  for  obesity.  Clinicians  should  offer  or  refer   patients  with  a  body  mass  index  30  kg/m2  to  intensive,  multicomponent behavioral  interventions.  This is a B recom­mendation.
Examine the Abdomen
Observe for contour. Patients with diabetes tend to have truncal obesity. Redistribution of fat in older pa­tients may also cause them to have truncal obesity. Palpate for tenderness or lumps, auscultate for bowel sounds, and check for rebound tenderness. Patients with malabsorption may have ascites.
Examine the Extremities
Conduct a musculoskeletal exam to assess strength, mobility, and balance (see Chapters 22 and 23). Assess for loss of muscle mass and subcutaneous fat associ­ated with cachexia, malabsorption, and aging. Patients with hypothyroidism may have generalized edema and delayed recovery of deep tendon reexes. Patients with hyperthyroidism may have overly brisk deep tendon reexes. Patients with diabetes may have peripheral neuropathy.
Complete Blood Count With Indices and Differential
A complete blood count (CBC) with indices will provide information about the degree and cause of anemia; mi­crocytic hypochromic anemia reects chronic blood loss and normocytic normochromic anemia suggests acute blood loss. An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count indicates the presence of inammation or infection.
Fasting Blood Glucose
A fasting blood glucose (FBG) is a blood specimen taken at least 8 hours after a meal. The reference value for FBG is below 100 mg/dL of glucose; a FBG of 100 to 125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes. If a random blood glucose is obtained within 2 hours after a meal, the reference value is #140 mg/dL.
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465
Glycosylated Hemoglobin
Glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) reects the average
blood glucose over a 3-month period. An A1c below
5.7% is normal, between 5.7 to 6.4% indicates predia-
betes, and 6.5% or above is diagnostic for diabetes.
The reference value is at or below 7% for someone
with diagnosed diabetes. The A1c result is not depen-
dent on when the most recent meal was consumed, but
the results may be affected by the presence of anemia
or sickle cell disease. The A1c result may be a poor re-
ection of blood glucose when severe anemia or sickle
cell disease is present.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone
Hypothyroidism is characterized by a decient thyroid
hormone production by the thyroid gland, which can
be severe or moderate. Severe decit of thyroid hor-
mones denes overt hypothyroidism. The moderate
form, called subclinical hypothyroidism, seldom has
signs and symptoms and is dened by an elevated se-
rum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration
and within-normal-range thyroid hormone levels. A
low or undetectable level of TSH indicates hyperthy-
roidism.
Bilirubin
Bilirubin values are usually reported as two fractions:
conjugated (direct) and unconjugated (indirect). Conju-
gated hyperbilirubinemia is present if more than 50% of
elevated total bilirubin is the conjugated form. The ref-
erence value for total conjugated bilirubin in newborns
is less than 2 mg/dL; the level peaks at 12.9 mg/dL at 3
to 4 days of life and then decreases. A tool designed to
help clinicians assess the risks of the development of
hyperbilirubinemia in newborns over 35 weeks’ gesta-
tional age can be found at www.bilitool.com. CF can
lead to liver failure and hyperbilirubinemia.
Total Serum Protein
A total serum protein measures the amount of total
protein and albumin (from the liver) and globulin
(from the liver and immune system) in the blood.
Normally there is more albumin than globulin with
a ratio of greater than 1. Albumin checks kidney func-
tion and reects dietary protein. Elevated globulin may
indicate infection.
Sweat Chloride Test
The quantitative pilocarpine iontophoresis test mea-
sures the amount of chloride and sodium in the sweat
of patients with CF. Normal sweat contains less than
60 mEq/L of chloride and sodium. Two tests on differ­ent occasions are needed for accurate diagnosis of CF.
Urinalysis
The extent of diagnostic investigation of urine will depend on history and physical examination ndings. Dipstick urinalysis can point out infection, proteinuria, and glycosuria (see Chapter 34).
Fecal Occult Blood Testing
The fecal occult blood test is an initial screening method to detect GI bleeding (see Chapter 29).
Chest Radiograph
A chest x-ray study can reveal the presence of consoli­dation, lung lesions, and heart contour.
Tests of the Gastrointestinal Tract
A barium upper GI series is used to examine the upper GI region, but small lesions may not be detected. Any abnormality needs to be evaluated by endoscopy. The lower GI tract is evaluated using sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. A colonoscopy will detect the presence of polyps and lesions along the entire large intestine (see Chapter 3).
Computed Tomography
Computed tomography (CT) scanning can be done on different body regions. Abdominal CT examines the uterus, pancreas, GI tract, and other abdominal organs.
Mammography
Screening mammograms consist of two views, cranio­caudal and medial lateral oblique, to detect nonpalpa­ble breast lesions. Compare results to previous screen­ing mammograms (see Chapter 6).
Cervical Cancer Screening
Screening includes the Pap test in women aged 21 to 65 years and also HPV testing for women aged 30 to 65 years. The Pap test is designed to detect cancer cells in the cervix and vagina. HPV testing detects high-risk HPV strains (16 and 18) associated with cervical cancer.
Metabolic Rate
Estimated energy needs should be based on resting or basal metabolic rate (BMR). BMR decreases with age and loss of lean body mass. An equation using actual weight, height, gender, and age is the most accurate for estimating BMR and calculating daily caloric require­ments (Box 39-3).
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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
Box 39-3
WOMEN
BMR 5 65.5 1 (4.35 3 Weight in pounds) 1 (4.7 3 Height  in inches) 2 (4.7 3 Age in years)
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Formula
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS
Unintentional Weight Loss
Cancer
Cancer alters the body’s appetite signals and metabo­lism resulting in cachexia, a condition in which body fat stores are depleted and muscle mass decreases. The most common malignancies that cause weight loss are GI, lung, hematological, and musculoskeletal. As many as 40% of people diagnosed with cancer reported un­explained weight loss at the time of diagnosis. Some people notice weight loss despite a good appetite. Oth­ers lose their appetite and may even become nauseated by food or have difculty swallowing.
Nutritional Status
Assess nutritional status by obtaining a history of dietary habits and physical activity patterns, as well as anthropo­metric measures (such as height and weight to calculate BMI and waist and hip circumference to determine distribution of body fat). One 24-hour or two consecutive days of 24-hour recall are reliable methods to assess dietary intake. Poor or inadequate nutrition in severe forms is most often found in developing countries and is manifested in two forms: kwashiorkor, which is a protein deciency, and marasmus, which is caused by inadequate food intake. Weight loss not explained by dietary intake is most likely caused by systemic disease.
Endocrine Disorders
Diabetes mellitus. More than 90% of all cases of
diabetes are type 2. Type 1 diabetes is more often as­sociated with weight loss despite increased appetite. Persons with type 2 diabetes may experience in­creased thirst and urinary frequency but often are as­ymptomatic. Some symptoms, such as blurred vision or peripheral neuropathy, may reect long-term mani­festations of an undiagnosed disease. Despite weight loss, patients tend to exhibit central obesity.
Hyperthyroidism. Patients with hyperthyroidism
may report a variety of signs and symptoms such as palpitations, nervousness, emotional lability, fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss despite good appetite, hyperdefecation, heat intolerance, menstrual changes
MEN
BMR 5 66 1  (6.23 3 Weight in pounds) 1 (12.7 3 Height  in inches) 2 (6.8 3 Age in years)
(oligomenorrhea), increased appetite, insomnia, and tremors. On physical examination, exophthalmos, warm skin, onycholysis, increased sweating, and thin­ning hair may be evident. Patients may have localized myxedema (edematous skin thickening) of legs (pre­tibial) or dorsa of feet. The thyroid may be enlarged and a bruit may be present. Deep tendon reexes (DTRs) may be brisk. High fever, congestive heart failure, and mental status changes suggest thyroid storm. TSH level will be low or undetectable.
Addison disease. Addison disease occurs when the
adrenal glands do not produce enough of their hormones. Associated symptoms may include changes in blood pressure or heart rate, darkening of the skin, weakness, salt craving, and loss of appetite.
Malabsorption
In malabsorption, the absorption and digestion of nutri­ents are disrupted. The disorder is caused by an insuf­ciency of a variety of digestive enzymes. In celiac disease, there is an immunological response to gluten. The degree of weight loss varies and is accompanied by chronic diarrhea and growth retardation. Patients exhibit muscle wasting and loss of subcutaneous fat. In the presence of severe hypoproteinemia, ascites may be present.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia most often affects young females who, despite weight loss, have a self-image of being overweight and an intense fear of gaining weight. Diagnosis is based on a body weight 15% below what is expected, a distorted body image, and the absence of at least three menstrual periods. Examination demonstrates loss of body fat and dry, scaly skin.
Depression or Anxiety
Mood regulation through eating is a way some indi­viduals cope with depression or anxiety (see Chapter 4). Major depression is diagnosed by the presence of a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities. Bipolar disorder involves episodes of mania or hypomania, often followed by depression. In mania, the patient experiences an elevated or irritable mood, often described as a “high” (see Chapter 4).
Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
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Cognitive Impairment
Dementia or compromised cognitive function can disrupt
normal self-regulation of appetite and hunger (see Chapter
9). Dementia is a nonspecic syndrome in which affected
areas of cognition may include memory, attention,
language, and problem solving. When it occurs early in
life it is labeled as organic brain syndrome. In the elderly,
dementia has a rate of memory and cognitive loss that
exceeds that of normal aging (see Chapter 9).
Psychosocial Factors (Alcohol Use, Social Isolation,
Economic Status)
Excessive alcohol intake may reduce appetite, which
can lead to poor nutrition. Individuals are generally
social beings and social isolation may reduce any mo-
tivation to prepare balanced meals or to eat when
alone. Older adults and young families may have nan-
cial constraints in purchasing healthy foods, because
fresh fruits and vegetables cost more than fast foods
and snack foods (see Chapter 4).
Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune
Deficiency Syndrome
Acquired immune deciency syndrome is a disease of the
immune system caused by the human immunodeciency
virus (HIV). This condition progressively reduces the
effectiveness of the immune system and leaves individuals
susceptible to opportunistic infections and tumors. Risk
factors for infection include multiple sexual partners,
unprotected sex, and intravenous drug use. HIV is trans-
mitted through direct contact of a mucous membrane or
the bloodstream with a bodily uid containing HIV, such
as blood, semen, vaginal uid, preseminal uid, and breast
milk. Persons with HIV infection develop opportunistic
infections because of their impaired immune response, and
they often have systemic symptoms of infection such as
fevers, sweats (particularly at night), swollen glands,
chills, weakness, and weight loss.
Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants
Regurgitation is commonly seen in newborns and young
infants while feeding. Immature upper gastrointestinal
motility is thought to be the cause. Excessive reux may
cause caloric deprivation resulting in weight loss.
Crohn Disease
Crohn disease is an inammatory bowel disease that
presents with abdominal cramping, rectal bleeding,
and bloody diarrhea. Weight loss is common because
of malabsorption. There is a genetic link in families with a two- to fourfold increase in risk when a rst­degree relative has the disease. The disease can affect any part of the tract from the mouth to the anus. Dis­ease affecting the small bowel affects nutritional status and weight loss.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is spread by droplets through the respiratory tract (see Chapter 11). Weight loss is a common symptom of tuberculosis. Diagnosis is based on a positive sputum culture.
Cystic Fibrosis
CF is an exocrine gland disorder that produces mu­cus blockage in major organs and is associated with an autosomal recessive trait (see Chapter 11). Growth retardation and weight loss are common symptoms of CF.
Unintentional Weight Gain
Energy Balance
A 24-hour food intake history is the rst approach to assessing nutritional and caloric intake. A history of physical activity or energy expenditure is done to assess the balance between calories consumed and energy expended.
Aging
In women, cessation of estrogen secretion during menopause is associated with lower levels of proges­terone, androgen, and testosterone, which can lead to weight gain and greater truncal fat deposition.
Endocrine Disorders
Hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism (myxedema) is
associated with weight gain and symptoms of cold intolerance, constipation, hoarseness, depression, and fatigue. Physical examination reveals bradycardia, dry skin, and delayed recovery of deep tendon reexes. In overt hypothyroidism the TSH is elevated and thyroid hormone level is low.
Cushing syndrome. Cushing syndrome is associated
with weight gain. Diagnosis is made through the presence of associated symptoms, glucose tolerance tests, and the dexamethasone suppression test. Cushing syndrome is associated with central truncal obesity, moon faces, supraclavicular fat pads and thin extremities.
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Chapter 39  •  Weight Loss/Gain (Unintentional)
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF
Common Causes of Unintentional Weight Loss/Gain
CONDITION HISTORY PHYSICAL FINDINGS DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES
WEIGHT LOSS
Cancer
Undernutrition Poor calorie/nutrient intake, 
Diabetes mellitus Polyuria, polyphagia, polydipsia Truncal obesity; xanthomas FBG, hemoglobin A1c, 
Gastroesophageal reflux 
(infants)
Addison disease Salt craving, fatigue Darkening of the skin Serum electrolytes, 24-hr 
Hyperthyroidism Tachycardia, heat intolerance, 
Malabsorption Intolerance to gluten; chronic 
Depression or anxiety Loss of appetite and/or interest 
Cognitive impairment Disorientation to person, 
Anorexia nervosa Female to male ratio 10:1, 
Psychosocial factors Alcohol consumption, social 
HIV/AIDS Fever, fatigue, multiple sexual 
Crohn disease Weight loss, fever, diarrhea, 
Cystic fibrosis Weight loss, cough, chronic di-
Nonorganic failure  
to thrive
Tuberculosis (TB) Contact with person who has 
Loss of appetite None or may look cachectic Diagnostic imaging studies, 
Loss of body mass Total serum protein
error in formula preparation
History of regurgitation None Upper GI, barium swallow
Exophthalmos, warm skin,   
sweating
diarrhea, growth retardation
in food
time, or place
perfectionist, high achiever,  amenorrhea
isolation, financial resources
partners, unprotected sex,  IV drug use
family history
arrhea, positive family history
Weight loss, maternal isola-
tion, maternal depression
TB, travel to endemic area,  HIV
onycholysis, thinning hair,  pretibial myxedema, enlarged  thyroid, brisk DTRs
Muscle wasting, loss of subcuta-
neous fat; may have ascites
None or may have poor personal 
hygiene
None or loss of body mass;  
poor personal hygiene
Cachexia, hair loss, dry skin,  
orthostatic hypotension
None or poor personal hygiene 
with chronic alcoholism
Redness or swelling of tissues 
or lymph nodes
Perirectal fissure, anal skin tag CBC, colonoscopy, barium 
Digital clubbing, growth retarda-
tion, weight loss
Decreased skin fold thickness, 
decrease subcutaneous fat
Cough, weight loss PPD, HIV, chest x-ray
CT, MRI, x-ray, CBC
glucose tolerance test
urine for aldosterone
TSH, T
4
Colonoscopy, stool  
culture, fecal fat
Thyroid function tests,  
refer for psychological  evaluation
MMSE
Thyroid function tests, 
serum electrolytes
Liver function tests
Blood or tissue  
culture, CBC
enema, small bowel  follow-through
Sweat test
Normal laboratory results 
in 98%
WEIGHT GAIN
Intake/energy balance Excessive calorie intake;  
Aging Menopause history;  
Hypothyroidism Cold intolerance, weight gain, 
Cushing syndrome Thirst, polyuria Moon facies, truncal obesity, 
CBC, Complete blood count;  CT, computed tomography; DTR, deep tendon reflex; FBG, fasting blood glucose; GI, gastrointestinal; HIV, human  immunodeficiency virus; IV, intravenous; MMSE, Mini Mental State Examination; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; PPD, purified  protein  derivative; T4, thyroxine; TB, tuberculosis;  TSH, thyroid-stimulating hormone.
inactivity
metabolism change
constipation; medication  history
Generalized excess of  
subcutaneous fat
Truncal obesity; loss of peripheral 
subcutaneous fat; loss of   muscle mass
Bradycardia, dry skin, general-
ized edema, delayed recovery  of DTRs
thin extremities
None
Serum estrogen level
TSH, T
4
FBG, dexamethasone 
suppression test