Malnutrition as a determinant of impaired quality of life in neuroendocrine tumor patients: A single-center cohort
Keywords:
Neuroendocrine tumors; malnutrition; quality of life; sarcopenia; supportive oncology; nutrition.Abstract
Introduction
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) constitute a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, often associated with chronic symptoms and digestive disorders that can impair nutritional status and quality of life (QoL). The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between nutritional status and quality of life in patients with NETs.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective observational study including patients with histologically confirmed NETs, followed in our oncology department between March 2016 and March 2021. Nutritional assessment was based on body mass index (BMI), recent weight loss, and serum albumin levels. Quality of life was evaluated using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Clinical, pathological, and therapeutic data were collected from medical records.
Results
A total of 40 patients were included, with a median age of 54.72 years (range: 25–86 years). The male-to-female ratio was 0.74. Gastroenteropancreatic NETs accounted for the majority of cases (90%), followed by pulmonary NETs (10%).
Malnutrition or nutritional risk was identified in 38% of patients. Significant weight loss (>10% over 6 months) was observed in 32.5% of cases, while hypoalbuminemia was found in 19% of patients. Patients with metastatic disease or functional NETs showed a higher frequency of nutritional impairment.
Global quality of life scores were significantly lower in malnourished patients compared to well-nourished patients. The symptoms most impacting quality of life were fatigue, anorexia, diarrhea, and impaired physical functioning.
Discussion
Our findings confirm the high prevalence of malnutrition in patients with NETs, consistent with the literature. This nutritional impairment is particularly marked in metastatic and functional forms, and is associated with a significant deterioration in quality of life. The association between malnutrition and specific symptoms (fatigue, anorexia) underscores the importance of systematic nutritional assessment.
Conclusion
Malnutrition is frequent in patients with neuroendocrine tumors and appears to be strongly associated with impaired quality of life and reduced therapeutic tolerance. Early nutritional screening and multidisciplinary management should be systematically integrated into the therapeutic strategy for NET patients.
References
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