Malnutrition

(Kwashiorkor and Marasmus)

Ι. Differentiate kwashiorkor and Marasmus

Marasmus is a form of severe protein-energy malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency. A child with
marasmus looks emaciated. Body weight may be reduced to less than 80% of the normal weight for that height.
The occurrence increases prior to age 1.

Kwashiorkor a malnutrition state that is produced by severe protein deficiency. The occurrence increases
after 18 months.

ΙΙ. Cite manifestations of malnutrition

Marasmus
 dry skin, loose skin folds hanging over the glutei, axillae, etc.
 a drastic loss of adipose tissue from normal areas of fat deposits like buttocks and thighs.
 fretful, irritable, and voraciously hungry.
 growth retardation
 Impaired immunity

Kwashiorkor
 pedal edema (swelling of the feet) caused by poor nutrition
 distended abdomen, an enlarged liver with fatty infiltrates
 thinning hair, loss of teeth, skin depigmentation and dermatitis. Children with kwashiorkor often develop
irritability and anorexia.
 weight loss, stunted growth, delayed puberty
 impaired immunity

ΙΙΙ. Identify the risk fators of such diseases

Marasmus
o famine
o starvation

Kwashiorkor
o famine
o limited food supply
o low levels of education (where people do not understand how to eat a proper diet)
o deficiency of one of several types of nutrients (e.g., iron, folic acid, iodine, selenium, vitamin C),

ΙV. Attain knowledge on preventive ways for malnutrition

 breast feeding a baby for at least 6 months is considered the best way to prevent early childhood
malnutrition.
 consume plenty of fruits, grains and vegetables
 eat a variety of foods that are low in fats and cholesterols and contain only moderate amounts of salts,
sugar, and sodium
 engage in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes, at least several times a week
  achieve or maintain their ideal weight
 give a protein rich foods
 use alcohol sparingly or avoid it altogether

V. Enumerate complications if left untreated

Marasmus
 infections
 dehydration
 muscle weakness
 weight loss
 circulation disorders

Kwashiorkor
 Sinus bradycardia , Hepatomegaly , Hyperpigmentation
 Hypotension , hypothermia,
 Weight loss, muscle weakness, edema , facial edema
 Diarrhea
 Red cell production reduced
 Muscle wasting
 Hypoproteinaemia
 Immune deficiency

Marasmus Kwashiorkor