Childhood Malnutrition

Question 1

describe cachexia

Answer 1

• wasting disorder characterized by loss of apetite and muscle atrophy seen in chronic diseases
  
  • cancer, chronic pulmonary and renal disease

Question 2

descibe protein-energy malnutrition

Answer 2

• result of energy deficit due to deficiency of macronutrients
• disorders:
  
  • marasmus
  • kwashiorkor

Question 3

describe marasmus

Answer 3

• state of extreme emaciation which is the outcome of prolonged negative energy balance
• not only have the body’s fat reserves been exhausted but there is wastage of muscle as well
  
  • loss of protein from heart, liver, kidneys

Question 4

describe kwashiorkor

Answer 4

• in addition to the wasting of muscle tissue, loss of intestinal mucosa and impaired immune responses seen in marasmus, children with kwashiorkor show:
  
  • edema

Question 5

contrast attitude between kwashiorkor and marasmus

Answer 5

• kwashiorkor
  
  • irritable when picked up, apathetic when left alone
  • appetite is poor
• marasmus
  
  • alert and irritable appetite is good

Question 6

describe management of PEM

Answer 6

• 1st step is to correct fluid and electrolyte abnormalities and treat any infections
• 2nd step is to supply macronutrients by dietary therapy
  
  • milk-based formulas
• step-wise approach during correction to prevent a serious complication known as refeeding syndrome

Question 7

describe lab tests for malnutrition

Answer 7