KWASHIORKOR

Kwashiorkor is a disease marked by severe protein malnutrition and bilateral extremity swelling
characterized by edema and an enlarged liver with fatty infiltratesIt occurs amongst weaning
children to ages of about five years old.. The disease is seen in very severe cases of starvation
and poverty-stricken regions worldwide.

It is thought to be caused by sufficient calorie intake, but with insufficient protein consumption (or
lack of good quality protein), which distinguishes it from marasmus. Recent studies have found that
a lack of antioxidant micronutrients such as β-carotene, lycopene, other carotenoids, and vitamin
C as well as the presence of aflatoxins may play a role in the development of the disease.

The defining sign of kwashiorkor in children is bilateral pitting edema in the feet. Edema may also
involve the hands, trunk, and face. Kwashiorkor is characterized by a fatty liver. This fatty liver of
undernutrition phenotype is often accompanied by evidence of inflammation and fibrosis. In
addition , kwashiorkor is marked by a parallel pattern of multi-organ dysfunction. Organs often
affected in children with kwashiorkor include the kidneys, pancreas, heart, and nervous system.
Other findings that may be encountered on physical exam include a distended abdomen, hair
thinning, loss of teeth, skin or hair depigmentation, and dermatitis. Children with kwashiorkor often
develop irritability and anorexia. Generally, kwashiorkor is treated by introducing a high quality
source of protein to the diet.

Other findings that may be encountered on physical exam include a distended abdomen, hair
thinning, loss of teeth, skin or hair depigmentation, and dermatitis. Children with kwashiorkor often
develop irritability and anorexia. Generally, kwashiorkor is treated by introducing a high quality
source of protein to the diet.

Kwashiorkor is also marked by low glutathione levels. Glutathione is used in many of the body
processes on a molecule level.

Kwashiorkor, or edematous malnutrition, like many other malnutrition diseases, is indirectly

assessed using anthropometry

WHO guidelines outline 10 general principles for the inpatient management of severely
malnourished children.

1. Treat/prevent hypoglycemia
2. Treat/prevent hypothermia
3. Treat/prevent dehydration
4. Correct electrolyte imbalance
5. Treat/prevent infection
6. Correct micronutrient deficiencies
7. Start cautious feeding
8. Achieve catch-up growth
9. Provide sensory stimulation and emotional support
10.Prepare for follow-up after recovery
As for the prevention of childhood malnutrition, there needs to be public health changes such as
improving agriculture and improving access to healthcare to effectively reduce the rates of
malnutrition in children. By educating individuals of childbearing age on proper nutrition and health
during and after pregnancy, they can pro he saiexample of prevention of kwashiorkorvide their
children with the appropriate nutrients from a young age. By ensuring they are equipped with the
proper education and resources, caretakers and infants are in better health, ultimately preventing
childhood malnutrition. A diet rich in carbohydrates, fats that make up 10% of the total caloric needs,
and proteins that make up 15% of the caloric needs can prevent kwashiorkor.