Kwashiorkor and Marasmus

 Kwashiorkor and Marasmus

(Protein-Energy Malnutrition Disorders)

1. Kwashiorkor

• Definition:
  Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein deficiency that occurs mainly in children, even when calorie intake is adequate.

• Causes:

  • Diet lacking in protein

  • Often seen in developing countries during weaning (switching from breast milk to other foods)

  • Infections that increase protein needs

• Symptoms:

  • Swollen belly (edema)

  • Thin muscles, but fat may be present

  • Hair changes (thin, reddish, easily pulled out)

  • Skin lesions and infections

  • Irritability and apathy

  • Delayed growth

• Treatment:

  • Gradual reintroduction of protein

  • Nutritional rehabilitation

  • Treating infections

  • Micronutrient supplementation

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2. Marasmus

• Definition:
  Marasmus is a severe form of calorie (energy) deficiency, leading to extreme wasting of body tissues.

• Causes:

  • Lack of all nutrients, especially calories and protein

  • Chronic starvation

  • Poverty, famine, neglect

• Symptoms:

  • Extreme thinness (emaciation)

  • No fat or muscle mass

  • Sunken eyes, dry skin

  • Weakness and lethargy

  • Growth retardation

  • Diarrhea

• Treatment:

  • Gradual feeding with energy-rich, balanced diet

  • Hydration and electrolyte correction

  • Management of infections

  • Long-term nutritional support

Feature	Kwashiorkor	Marasmus
Cause	Protein deficiency	Overall calorie deficiency
Appearance	Edematous (swollen)	Emaciated (thin, wasted)
Fat stores	Present	Nearly absent
Muscle wasting	Mild to moderate	Severe
Appetite	Poor	Good
Age group	1–3 years	Below 1 year