Unexplained weight loss

Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Causes

By Mayo Clinic staff

There are many possible causes of unexplained weight loss, including undiagnosed celiac disease and thyroid disorders. Potential causes of unexplained weight loss include:

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

References
  1. Rolla AR. Approach to the patient with weight loss. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed June 16, 2011.
  2. Bouras EP, et al. Rational approach to patients with unintentional weight loss. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2001;76:923.
  3. McMinn J, et al. Investigation and management of unintentional weight loss in older adults. British Medical Journal. 2011;342:754.
  4. Proctor DD. Approach to the patient with gastrointestinal disease. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Saunders; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/191371208-2/0/1492/0.html#. Accessed June 16, 2011.
MY00713 Aug. 20, 2011

© 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Print Share Reprints

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger