Unexplained loss of muscle mass, also known as cachexia, is a condition characterized by significant wasting of body mass that cannot be reversed nutritionally. It is often associated with underlying illness and leads to progressive muscle loss and weakness. Potential causes include:
- Chronic diseases: Cachexia can be seen with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, cancer, AIDS, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other chronic illnesses. These diseases induce an inflammatory state which accelerates protein breakdown and impairs muscle building.
- Low testosterone: Testosterone is an anabolic hormone needed to build and maintain muscle mass. Low testosterone, known as hypogonadism, becomes more common with age and can result in cachexia.
- Inadequate nutrition: A chronic lack of protein or calories can lead to cachexia over time. Those with difficulty eating due to anorexia, dysphagia, malabsorption, or hypermetabolism are at risk.
- Neurological conditions: Disorders like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or post-polio syndrome impair neuromuscular signaling and cause progressive muscle wasting.
- Sarcopenia: This age-related loss of muscle can occur even without underlying illness. Sarcopenia results from reduced synthesis of muscle proteins and causes generalized loss of skeletal muscle.
- Medications: Some drugs like corticosteroids can accelerate protein breakdown and muscle wasting.
How can unexplained muscle wasting be evaluated?
Diagnostic tests aim to identify any underlying disease while assessing nutritional status. A
workup may include:
- Complete blood count and metabolic panel to look for abnormalities pointing to disease.
- Inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein to check for excessive inflammation.
- Thyroid function tests as hypothyroidism can cause weakness and fatigue.
- Testosterone level in men to check for hypogonadism.
- Imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to visualize disease.
- Muscle enzyme tests for evidence of muscle breakdown.
- Nutritional assessment involving food diaries, body composition tests, and evaluation by a dietitian.
Treatment focuses on addressing any underlying illness while providing
optimal nutrition and
testosterone replacement if indicated.
Exercise programs, like aerobic and resistance training tailored to individual ability, help
rebuild muscle mass. Consult doctors like
endocrinologists to manage hormone imbalances contributing to loss of muscle. In certain illnesses, investigational
anabolic agents and
anti-inflammatory drugs may help counteract cachexia.
Though cachexia can be concerning, an experienced physician can determine its cause and initiate appropriate treatment. Don't ignore new muscle wasting - schedule an evaluation at * to start regaining strength as soon as possible. Our compassionate providers partner with each patient for expert care. Call us today to begin your muscle recovery plan.