Kwashiorkor Health Article

Definition

Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition that occurs when there is not enough protein in the diet.

Alternative Names

Protein malnutrition; Protein-calorie malnutrition; Malignant malnutrition

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Kwashiorkor is most common in areas where there is:

• Famine
• Limited food supply
• Low levels of education (when people do not understand how to eat a proper diet)

This disease is more common in very poor countries. It often occurs during a drought or other natural disaster, or during political unrest. These conditions are responsible for a lack of food, which leads to malnutrition.

Kwashiorkor is very rare in children in the U.S. There are only isolated cases. However, one government estimate suggests that as many as 50% of elderly people in nursing homes in the U.S. do not get enough protein in their diet.

When kwashiorkor does occur in the U.S., it is usually a sign of child abuse and severe neglect.

Symptoms

• Changes in skin pigment
• Coma (late stage)
• Decreased muscle mass
• Diarrhea
• Failure to gain weight and grow
• Fatigue
• Hair changes (change in color or texture)
• Increased and more severe infections due to damaged immune system
• Irritability
• Large belly that sticks out (protrudes)
• Lethargy or apathy
• Loss of muscle mass
• Rash (dermatitis)
• Shock (late stage)
• Swelling (edema)

Signs and tests

The physical examination may show an enlarged liver (hepatomegaly) and general swelling.

Tests may include:

• Arterial blood gas
• BUN
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Creatinine clearance
• Serum creatinine
• Serum potassium
• Total protein levels
• Urinalysis