Refeeding syndrome

Refeeding syndrome (RFS) is a potentially serious metabolic condition that can arise when nutrition is reintroduced to severely malnourished individuals. This syndrome is characterized by an imbalance of water-electrolytes, glucose intolerance, cardiac arrhythmias, and diarrhea, typically occurring within the first five days of refeeding.

Understanding Refeeding Syndrome

The hallmark of refeeding syndrome is a shift in fluids and electrolytes in a malnourished individual who receives nutritional supplementation. This shift can lead to severe complications such as heart failure, respiratory failure, and death if not recognized and managed promptly.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of RFS is the reintroduction of glucose, or carbohydrates, to a severely malnourished individual. Risk factors include prolonged fasting, low BMI, significant unintentional weight loss, and underlying chronic diseases such as cancer and chronic gastrointestinal diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of RFS can vary widely and may include fatigue, muscle weakness, seizures, heart failure, and even coma.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of RFS is often clinical, made by observing the patient's response to nutritional reintroduction. However, blood tests are essential to monitor electrolyte levels, especially phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.

Management

Management of RFS requires careful monitoring and correction of electrolyte imbalances, along with gradual, controlled reintroduction of nutrients. In some cases, intravenous electrolyte replacement may be necessary.

See Also

• Malnutrition
• Anorexia nervosa
• Bulimia nervosa
• Starvation

Refeeding syndrome Resources
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