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Related Experiment Videos

Cachexia and cancer: a clinician's view.

T A Splinter1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Dijkzigt, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Annals of Oncology : Official Journal of the European Society for Medical Oncology
|August 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Megestrol acetate can improve appetite and well-being in cancer patients with anorexia, even without tumor response. A 10-day trial helps identify patients who benefit from this palliative treatment.

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Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Palliative Care
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Cancer-related cachexia/anorexia syndrome is complex, involving metabolic changes, tumor characteristics, and disease extent, often impacting patient performance status and psychosocial well-being.
  • Megestrol acetate has shown potential in improving appetite and weight gain, particularly in breast cancer patients, irrespective of tumor response.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of megestrol acetate in improving appetite and general well-being in palliative cancer patients experiencing anorexia, specifically in non-breast cancer types.
  • To determine the feasibility of identifying treatment responders within a short timeframe.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 176 palliative cancer patients (excluding breast cancer) treated with megestrol acetate (160 mg tid) for anorexia.
  • Treatment continuation was based on observed improvements in appetite and/or general well-being after 10 days.

Main Results:

  • Fifty-seven patients (32%) reported improvement in appetite and/or general well-being, requesting continued therapy.
  • The distinction between responders and non-responders was achievable within 10 days.
  • Reported side effects of megestrol acetate were generally absent or mild.

Conclusions:

  • Megestrol acetate offers a viable option for improving appetite and well-being in palliative cancer patients with anorexia, with a predictable response window of 10 days.
  • This treatment can be practically considered for anorectic cancer patients, given its mild side effect profile and potential for significant patient benefit.

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