27-11-2019
MNDA SYMPOSIUM PERTH DEC19 PRESENTATIONS
Session 8B DYSPHAGIA
Australia
Objectives: Our objective is to determine the prevalence and impact of loss of appetite on change in body weight and composition in patients with ALS.
Methods: We conducted a prospective case-control study, comparing demographic, clinical, appetite and prognostic features between 62 patients with ALS and 45 healthy non-neurodegenerative disease (NND) controls. To determine the impact of loss of appetite on weight throughout disease course, we conducted serial assessments at ~3 to 4-month intervals.
Results: Loss of appetite is more prevalent in patients with ALS than NND controls (29.0% vs. 11.1%, odds ratio =3.27 (1.1–9.6); p
Discussion and conclusions: We confirm that loss of appetite is prevalent in patients with ALS and is significantly associated with weight loss, and loss of fat mass. Appetite worsens with disease progression. Identification and early interventions to address loss of appetite in patients with ALS may prevent or slow weight loss, which could improve disease outcome.
Source: Abstract Book symposium Perth