Métodos de avaliação da composição corporal em oncologia: uma revisão da literatura com ênfase na tomografia computadorizada

Abstract

Most cancer patients undergo changes in body composition and consequent compromised nutritional status. It is essential to quantify the volume of tissues muscular and adipose tissue and the possible variations of this volume, in order to evaluate interventions adequate measures to alleviate tissue degradation and consequent nutritional risk. There is several methods to assess body composition, including: bioelectrical impedance, anthropometry, magnetic resonance imaging, dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and computed tomography (CT). CT allows quantification of muscle tissue, different adipose tissue compartments (subcutaneous and visceral, and intramuscular) and the organs and internal tissues as well as infiltration of fat into lean tissues. The present study aims to carry out a literature review on the applicability of CT as a tool of high precision to quantify tissues of cancer patients, as well as to present other methods used to assess body composition in cancer. Anthropometry is an accessible and low-cost method, but it has limitations in its applicability in cancer patients, as I did not distinguish the different deposits of adipose tissue and muscle. DEXA and magnetic resonance imaging are expensive methods, but offer more precise and specific information. CT is an accurate and useful method to support the development of nutritional interventions for the maintenance or recovery of the state nutrition of the oncological patient.