Distinguishing Between Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Protein Energy Wasting in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Dialysis

Abstract

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis can have altered nutritional status and body composition due to dietary restrictions, level of physical activity, co-morbidities, metabolic alterations and inflammation.1 As such, weight loss or wasting is common among this population with up to 75% of adults with ESRD undergoing maintenance dialysis displaying some evidence of wasting.