Introduction to Kwashiorkor and Marasmus
Adequate nutrition is the intake and utilization of energy-giving and body building foods and nutrients in the right proportions to maintain well-being, and productivity.
Malnutrition manifests as stunting, underweight, wasting (kwashiorkor and marasmus), obesity as well as deficiencies of micronutrients.
Epidemiology
High prevalence in under-developed countries, especially sub-Saharan Africa
Clinical features of Kwashiorkor and Marasmus
Kwashiorkor:
- Growth retardation
- muscle wasting
- anaemia
- apathy
- moon face
- lack luster skin easily plucked hair
- pedal oedema
- hypo-pigmented skin patches
- exfoliation
- diarrhoea
Marasmus:
- Thin
- protruding bones
- hungry-looking ‘old-looking face,’
- whimpering cry
Investigations
- Full Blood Count,
- ESR
- Stool microscopy
- Urinalysis,
- Serum proteins,
- Chest radiograph,
- Mantoux test
Non-drug treatment
- Nutritional counselling
- Adequate nutrient intake: may require assistance and special preparations e.g. nasogastric feeding,
- Periodic growth monitoring
Drug treatment for Kwashiorkor and Marasmus
This may be indicated where there are specific infections/infestations