Malnutrition Is Common in Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A Prospective Study Using Validated Nutritional Assessment Tools

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) can impair nutritional status due to recurrent episodes of nausea and vomiting, yet systematic data are lacking. We aimed to evaluate nutritional status in adults with CVS using validated assessment tools.

In a prospective study of adults diagnosed with CVS based on Rome IV criteria, nutritional status was evaluated using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form (PG-SGA-SF) completed by participants, the PG-SGA completed by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST).

Among 80 participants (mean age 39 ± 16 years) 77.5% (n = 62) were female, and 85% (n = 68) had moderate-to-severe CVS. Based on the PG-SGA-SF, 70% (n = 56) were at risk of malnutrition (42.5%, n = 34 severe; 27.5%, n = 22 moderate). More than half (41; 51%) were at risk for malnutrition (MST score ≥ 2). Despite this, 27% (n = 22) were obese, and 20% (n = 16) were overweight. Mean BMI did not differ between well-nourished and malnourished participants (28.4 ± 8.2 kg/m² vs. 29.1 ± 7.7; p = 0.7). Of the 64 participants with a completed PG-SGA, 62.5% were classified as malnourished (28%, n = 18 severe; 34%, n = 22 moderate). The PG-SGA-SF demonstrated high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (71%) for detecting malnutrition with a positive predictive value of 85% and a negative predictive value of 100%.

Most adults with CVS met criteria for malnutrition, indicating a need for referral to an RDN. BMI should not be used as a screening tool for malnutrition, and mechanisms underlying obesity in CVS warrant further investigation.