Nutritional Therapy in Rectal Carcinoma Patient with Anemia, Depletion of Immune System and Hypoalbuminemia

Background/Aims: Rectal Carcinoma is the most malignant tumor among gastrointestinal malignant tumors. Malnutrition in patients with carcinoma negatively affects the therapeutic response, complications, quality of life and survival of patients. Nutritional interventions can prevent and improve malnutrition. Methods: A 31 years old woman was consulted by surgical department with rectal carcinoma is planned for surgery. The chief complaint was decrease of food intake since the last 5 months due to loss of appetite. The patient was diagnosed with severe malnutrition (BMI 15.9 kg/m2). Laboratory finding ; normocytic normochrome anemia (Hb 11.5 g/dl), Total Lymphocyte count (TLC 1890/μL), hypoalbuminemia (albumin 2.7 g/dL). Physical examination: anemic conjunctiva, loss of subcutaneous fat, there is a lump in the pubic region with a diameter of 3 cm, and wasting. Nutritional therapy by giving energy 1700 kkal, protein 74 gr, carbohydrates 212 gr, fat 62 gr. Supplementation with Vitamin A, B complex, Zinc, and extract snakehead fish (450 mg). Results: After 15 days of nutritional intervention, patients condition was improved as well as blood test for hemoglobin, TLC, and albumin, thus the patient is able to undergo surgery. Macronutrients and micronutrient nutrition interventions, monitoring, and nutrition education are needed to support the improvement of the patient's clinical condition. Conclusion: Certain nutritional therapy given to Rectal Carcinoma Patient with anemia improved her nutritional statu.