Systemic Inflammatory Biomarkers and Cancer-Associated Cachexia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Simple Summary Cancer-associated cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by systemic inflammation, weight loss, and poor nutritional intake secondary to anorexia, affecting up to 80% of patients with advanced cancer. Despite its profound impact on survival and quality of life, inconsistent diagnostic criteria and heterogeneity in measurement across research studies limit its translation into routine clinical practice. Inflammatory biomarkers, including interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, C-reactive protein, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and serum albumin, have been widely investigated for their ability to reflect the presence, severity, and progression of cachexia. This review aimed to synthesize current evidence on these key biomarkers to clarify their clinical utility and to support efforts toward standardized assessment, early recognition, and improved monitoring of cancer-associated cachexia.