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[Malnutrition in the hospital]
1Abteilung für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie, Kantonsspital Basel.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift. Supplementum
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Malnutrition affects one in five internal medicine patients due to illness and psychosocial factors. Assessing nutritional status, including body function, is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Nutrition
- Geriatrics
Context:
- Malnutrition is prevalent in internal medicine wards, affecting approximately 20% of patients.
- Underlying diseases, psychological, and social factors contribute significantly to malnutrition.
- Elderly patients exhibit a higher prevalence of malnutrition, with frequent deficiencies in vitamins D, B12, and B6.
Purpose:
- To highlight the prevalence and contributing factors of malnutrition in internal medicine.
- To clarify the relationship between malnutrition, hypoalbuminemia, and the term "dysproteinemic malnutrition".
- To emphasize the importance of comprehensive nutritional assessment and intervention.
Summary:
- Malnutrition is common in internal medicine, linked to poor prognosis and often associated with hypoalbuminemia.
- The term "dysproteinemic malnutrition" is proposed as more accurate than "protein malnutrition" to reflect the role of severe illness.
- Nutritional assessment should evaluate body composition and function, especially in elderly patients.
- Nutritional therapy is an essential part of comprehensive treatment for conditions leading to malnutrition.
Impact:
- Improved recognition and assessment of malnutrition in clinical settings.
- More accurate terminology for malnutrition-associated hypoalbuminemia.
- Integration of nutritional support into standard medical care, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- Potential for better patient outcomes through targeted nutritional interventions.