Nutritional assessment and malnutrition in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Malnutrition is often identified in patients in chronic diseases and dysphagia is the major contributing factor. The evaluation of the nutritional status included assessment of the swallowing abilities, food intake and lifestyle. Weight is the first parameter for suspecting a malnutrition, it is considered significant when weight loss major that 10% of normal weight occurs over a period of six months. The objective of evaluating the nutritional status of the patient is to identify metabolic alteration that may influence nutritional status. Hematological parameters and the assessment of type and quantities of food consumed are the first step of clinical approach. A number of questionnaires, such as Subjective Global assessment, Mini nutritional assessment or Malnutritional Universal screening tool, have been developed in order to score the level of malnutrition. Caloric needs can be easily calculated using formula for catabolism or protein and water needs and intake. Finally is crucial to underline the importance of multidisciplinary assessment.