Nutritional support and parenteral nutrition in the oncological patient: an expert group consensus report

Background: Malnutrition is a frequent medical problem of cancer patients that negatively impacts their quality of life. Objective: To analyze and respond to different issues related to the nutritional management of cancer patients in the clinical setting. Methods: A multidisciplinary group of experts in Medical Oncology, Pharmacy, and Nutrition developed a list of topics related to the nutritional status of cancer patients, which were grouped into three blocks: Nutritional support; Parenteral nutrition (PN); and Home PN (HPN) in cancer patients. A literature search, which included articles published in Spanish, English, and French until February 2017, was carried out. The document was organized as a questionnaire with those questions that, according to the panel's criteria, could generate greater controversy or doubt. Results: Of the 18 questions addressed, 9 focused on nutritional support: 5 were related to PN and 4 about HPN. Among the different recommendations, the panel emphasized that in the cancer patient, PN is indicated mainly when it is not possible to use the digestive tract and/or oral feeding and/or enteral nutrition is not sufficient or possible. Additionally, the objective of the HPN is to improve or maintain the nutritional status of a patient at home. Conclusions: This document seeks to lay down a set of recommendations and to identify key issues that may be useful for the nutritional management of cancer patients.