Protein-calorie malnutrition and involuntary weight loss: the role of aggressive nutritional intervention in wound healing.

Protein-calorie malnutrition and involuntary weight loss continue to be prevalent among hospitalized and long-term care patients, particularly the elderly. Studies on nutritional intervention have established a correlation between nutritional status, body weight, and rate of wound healing. Nutritional intervention, however, must be provided early enough to prevent a catabolic-induced decline in lean muscle mass, which can further impair wound healing. Chronic, nonhealing wounds are particularly difficult to treat and contribute to significant morbidity, mortality, and hospitalizations. More aggressive nutritional management and a greater understanding of the role of nutrition and weight gain in wound healing can result in more effective patient care. This article discusses the role of protein-calorie malnutrition and involuntary weight loss in hindering the wound-healing process, and the need to establish an optimal anabolic environment for weight gain and improved wound healing.