There are many causes of unintentional weight loss including endocrine, gastrointestinal, neurological, psychiatric, and eating disorders (see anorexia nervosa), as well as nutritional deficiencies, infections, and tumors.
Common Causes:
Conditions that prevent food consumption such as painful mouth sores, newly applied orthodontic appliances, or loss of teeth
Manipulative behavior (in children)
Unrealistic expectations of caretakers (with children)
Review Date: 1/24/2005
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
