Cachexia is a physical wasting condition characterized by loss of weight and muscle mass, commonly a result of advanced cancer or AIDS.

• A. Malnutrition
• B. Cachexia
• C. Anorexia
• D. Obesity

Answer: (B)

Cachexia is a wasting syndrome driven by chronic disease, leading to involuntary weight loss and loss of muscle mass due to metabolic changes and inflammation. It often occurs with advanced cancer or AIDS, and the key point is that this muscle wasting can occur even if caloric intake isn’t severely reduced, differentiating it from simple starvation. Malnutrition describes inadequate nutrient intake or absorption; anorexia is a lack of appetite leading to reduced intake; obesity is excess body fat with weight gain. The description in the question matches cachexia, making it the best choice.