Nutrition therapy in colorectal cancer patient with severe malnutrition: A case report

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition in cancer patients generally, and in gastrointestinal cancer specifically, is common, that could be from the cancer itself or the treatment. Thus, it is necessary to follow special nutrition rules in patients with colorectal cancer. This study aims to see the progress of the nutritional status of cancer patients treated with special nutrition rules. Case Description: A 72-year-old man was brought to the ER with the chief complaint of weakness, felt since 1 week ago. Other complaints are loss of appetite and liquid stool. History of weight loss is 12 kg in the last 6 months. He was diagnosed with colorectal cancer 6 months ago. The patient looks pale, with conjunctiva pallor, loss of subcutaneous fat in arms, trunk, and feet, and loss of muscle in the face, ribs, and shoulder. He was then admitted to the ward with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer with severe malnutrition. Nutrition therapy has been given since the beginning. The total energy was 2,100 kkal, with 80gr protein, 280gr carbohydrate, and 70gr fat. The patient was treated for 10 days. Clinically improved: the conjunctiva was no more pallor, arm circumference increased to 19cm, he had gained his appetite, was no longer dripping with norepinephrine, and no longer needed O2 supplementation (SaO2 in room air: 98%). Conclusion: Cancer treatment causes side effects on nutrition status. It is essential to give special nutrition rules to patients with colorectal cancer. Cancer patients also suffer from inadequate food intake, reduced ability to digest food, and disturbed body homeostasis. Malnutrition, especially in cancer patients, could result in general weakening, lower immunity, prolonged recovery period, and lower tolerance to the side effects of cancer therapy. Early nutrition therapy has a good impact on the nutritional status of the cancer patient.