Changes in taste sensation and feeding behaviour in cancer patients: a review

Recent studies suggest the importance of alterations in taste sensation as a determinant of anorexia in cancer patients. These studies collectively support the conclusions that the likelihood of developing abnormalities in taste increases with increasing body burden of tumour, that taste abnormality is reversible on response of the underlying tumour to therapy, and that the abnormalities in taste can be correlated with decreased intake of energy. It is suggested that these studies, and studies currently in progress, may aid our understanding of food choices in cancer patients and may guide the use of food supplements to assist the cancer patient in maintaining adequate energy intake.