Cardiac cachexia

Inflammatory cytokines have been implicated in the pathophysiology of HF.9 Several proinflammatory (e.g., tumor necrosis factor-a [TNF-a], interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and interferon-y) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukin-10) are overexpressed in the failing heart. The most is known about TNF-a, a pleiotrophic cytokine that acts as a negative inotrope, stimulates cardiac cell apoptosis, uncouples 3-adrenergic receptors from adenylyl cyclase, and is related to cardiac cachexia. The exact role of cytokines and inflammation in HF pathophysiology continues to be studied. 

Hypoperfusion of skeletal muscles leads to fatigue, weakness, and exercise intolerance. Decreased perfusion of the central nervous system (CNS) is related to confusion, hallucinations, insomnia, and lethargy. Peripheral vasoconstriction due to SNS activity causes pallor, cool extremities, and cyanosis of the digits. Tachycardia is also common in these patients and may reflect increased SNS activity. Patients will often exhibit polyuria and nocturia. Polyuria is a result of increased release of natriuretic peptides caused by volume overload. Nocturia occurs due to increased renal perfusion as a consequence of reduced SNS renal vasoconstrictive effects at night. In chronic severe HF, unintentional weight loss can occur which leads to a syndrome of cardiac cachexia. This results from several factors, including loss of appetite, malabsorption due to gastrointestinal edema, elevated metabolic rate, and elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines. 

Cardiac cachexia Physical wasting with loss of weight and muscle mass caused by cardiac disease a wasting syndrome that causes weakness and a loss of weight, fat, and muscle. 

---