Refeeding syndrome
Refeeding Syndrome
Refeeding syndrome (pronunciation: /ˈriːˌfiːdɪŋ ˈsɪndroʊm/) is a potentially fatal metabolic disturbance that can occur as a result of reinstitution of nutrition to patients who are starved or severely malnourished.
Etymology
The term "refeeding syndrome" is derived from the process of "refeeding", which refers to the reintroduction of food after a period of starvation or fasting, and "syndrome", a term used in medicine to describe a collection of symptoms and clinical signs that are associated with a specific health-related condition.
Definition
Refeeding syndrome is characterized by metabolic disturbances that occur as a result of reinstitution of nutrition to patients who are starved, severely malnourished or metabolically stressed due to severe illness. The syndrome is caused by the shift in electrolytes that occurs during refeeding, particularly phosphorus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of refeeding syndrome may include fatigue, weakness, confusion, seizures, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest. These symptoms are caused by the sudden shift in electrolytes that occurs when a person who is malnourished begins to eat again.
Treatment
Treatment for refeeding syndrome typically involves careful monitoring of electrolyte levels and gradual reintroduction of nutrition. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Refeeding syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Refeeding syndrome
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