Table 1 Characteristics of Cachexia [8, 14]

Unintentional oedema free weight loss ≥ 5% in 6 months or ≥ 10% 12 months (in the absence of documented weights, BMI < 20 kg/m²) and in the absence of starvation.

Plus three of the following five criteria:

1) Decreased muscle strength(lowest tertile);

2) Fatigue (physical and/or mental weariness resulting from exertion not merely post-dialysis fatigue);

3) Anorexia;

4) Lean tissue depletion (in relation to aged /gender normative data)

5) Abnormal biochemistry: increased inflammatory markers [CRP > 5 mg/L]; anaemia [haemoglobin < 120 g/L]; low serum albumin [< 32 g/L bromocresol green].