Description
Adult failure to thrive is not a disease. Instead, it is a group of symptoms that result from a combination of physical, mental and psychosocial conditions. The Institute of Medicine defines adult failure to thrive as weight loss greater than 5 percent of baseline, decreased appetite, poor nutrition, and inactivity, often accompanied by dehydration, depressive symptoms, impaired immune function, and low cholesterol levels. The risk of adult failure to thrive increases with age, multiple serious medical conditions, decreased ability to move around without assistance, and dementia.
Symptoms
Symptoms include weight loss, confusion, depression, disinterest in food, decreased mobility and frequent infections.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. Blood and imaging studies will likely be required to look for any associated medical conditions.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), Urinalysis (UA), Chest X-ray, Cholesterol panel (LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglyceride)
Other Specific Tests: c-reactive protein, testosterone, albumin, HIV, RPR, PPD, Growth hormone
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice, Geriatric Medicine, Occupational Medicine
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. Blood and imaging studies will likely be required to look for any associated medical conditions.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), Urinalysis (UA), Chest X-ray, Cholesterol panel (LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglyceride)
Other Specific Tests: c-reactive protein, testosterone, albumin, HIV, RPR, PPD, Growth hormone
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice, Geriatric Medicine, Occupational Medicine
Treatment
Treatment will vary, based on the presence of any associated medical conditions and the most distressing symptoms. Medications and psychotherapy may be used to treat depression. Mobility impairment might improve with physical and occupational therapy. Treatment of malnutrition may require dietary supplements and/or appetite stimulants.