Hypermetabolism is defined as an elevated resting energy expenditure > 110% of predicted REE. Hypermetabolism is accompanied by a variety of internal and external symptoms, most notably extreme weight loss, and can also be a symptom in itself.

What does the word hypermetabolism mean?

: metabolism at an increased or excessive rate The drugs inhibit the function of hormones such as epinephrine and other so-called catecholamines, already known to play a major role in posttraumatic hypermetabolism.—

What is hypermetabolism a symptom of?

Hypermetabolism may be caused by hypovolemic shock, sepsis, severe inflammation such as pancreatitis, or severe tissue injury, such as trauma.