Recognizing Acquired HO
Early identification and proactive intervention can help patients
Screening for acquired HO is critical in cases of hypothalamic injury
Many patients may not be aware of acquired hypothalamic obesity (HO) as a risk following hypothalamic injury or may only be focused on other post-treatment concerns.1
Talk to your patients about signs and symptoms.
Clinical Diagnosis2-7
A clinical diagnosis of acquired HO is characterized by accelerated and sustained weight gain, most often within the initial 6 to 12 months following injury to the hypothalamus.
Variable Presentation3,8
Acquired HO can have variable time to onset and progression of weight gain due to type, location, and extent of hypothalamic injury.
Confounding Factors9
Recognizing acquired HO may be confounded by temporary weight gain from medications or hormone replacements.
Identifying acquired HO
Minimize diagnostic delays due to competing medical needs or other confounding factors. Stay alert for signs that could indicate acquired HO at different stages.3,10
Screen All Patients3,10–13
Screen patients with a history of hypothalamic injury, including from:
- Brain tumors
- Brain tumor treatment
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Stroke
Monitor Proactively In New Patients3,10–12
Early signs and symptoms that can help identify patients with acquired HO include:
- Accelerated and sustained weight gain, even in the absence of increased caloric intake
- Increased hunger or hyperphagia
- Decreased physical activity
- Increased levels of fatigue or daytime sleepiness
Follow Up With Existing Patients2,3,14
Patients with a past brain injury may:
Experience persistent obesity that is resistant to calorie restriction, exercise, or other weight loss interventions.
Make a decisive diagnosis. Find resources and get more information.
Managing acquired HO
Diet
Exercise
Anti-obesity medications
Bariatric surgery
There is a critical need to recognize the urgency to diagnose and manage acquired HO due to its impact on patients and families.2,7,10,15–17
Patients may experience short-term weight loss with:
- Lifestyle modifications
- Anti-obesity medications
- Surgery
However, these approaches have shown limited efficacy in producing sustained results in acquired HO.2–7,18
While acquired HO can be challenging to manage, early identification and proactive intervention may help to slow the progression of weight gain and help patients better understand their disease.2,7,13,19
Join a searchable directory of healthcare professionals who treat acquired HO. Register Here
Currently there is no FDA-approved treatment specifically indicated for acquired HO.1,7,9
Educational support for acquired HO
Many patients may be unprepared for the impact of acquired HO. Accessing tailored informational resources and one-on-one education can make a meaningful difference.
Acquired HO Resources
Hyperphagia Questionnaire
Identify hyperphagia in your patients with a hypothalamic injury
Acquired HO Brochure
Use this resource for an in-depth understanding of acquired HO
Acquired HO Rhythm InTune Patient Education Handout
Share this handout with patients to inform them about personalized one-on-one educational support
Join the HCP Registry
Be included in our list of healthcare providers who manage patients with rare diseases that cause obesity
Sign up to receive educational resources for your patients and practice, as well as the latest updates about acquired HO.
Personalized one-on-one educational support* for your patients living with acquired HO
Rhythm InTune provides educational resources, wellness tips, and connection to a community for people living with acquired HO
Patient Education Managers are employees of Rhythm Pharmaceuticals and do not provide medical care or advice. We encourage patients to always speak to their healthcare providers regarding their medical care.