To define risk factors for weight loss or dehydration during radiation therapy (RT). Retrospective chart review, academic tertiary care center.


Authors: Dr. Mary Es Beaver, Dr. Keith E. Matheny, Dr. Dianna B. Roberts, Dr. Jeffrey N. Myers. Otorhinolaryngology 11 out of 43 | Surgery 70 out of 200.

RESULTS: The incidence of severe weight loss during RT was 32.7%, the incidence of dehydration was 10.9%, and the rate of prophylactic feeding gas-trostomy tube placement was 32%. The patients most likely to suffer severe weight loss included patients with tumor sites of nasopharynx and base of tongue, those treated with chemoradiation, and patients with severe pretreatment weight loss. Prophylactic feeding gastrostomy tube placement before RT significantly reduced the incidence of severe weight loss and hospitalization during RT.

CONCLUSION: Severe weight loss and dehydration during RT for head and neck cancer is common. Prophylactic feeding gastrostomy tubes significantly reduce the incidence of severe weight loss and hospitalization for dehydration during RT when placed before onset of RT. Patients at risk for severe weight loss include those with severe pretreatment weight loss, tumors of the nasopharynx and base of tongue, or treatment with chemoradiation.

http://oto.sagepub.com/content/125/6/645.short