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Article: Rational approach to patients with unintentional weight loss
- Article from:
- Mayo Clinic Proceedings
- Article date:
- September 1, 2001
- Author:
CopyrightCopyright Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Sep 2001. Provided by ProQuest LLC. (Hide copyright information)
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Unintentional weight loss is a problem encountered frequently in clinical practice. Weight loss and low body weight have potentially serious clinical implications. Although a nonspecific observation, weight loss is often of concern to both patients and physicians. There are multiple potential etiologies and special factors to consider in selected groups, such as older adults. A rational approach to these patients is based on an understanding of the relevant biologic, psychological, and social factors identified during a thorough history and physical examination. The
goal of this article is to discuss the clinical importance, review potential pathophysiology, and discuss specific etiologies ...