Kwasiorkor

Kwashiorkor is one form of Protein Energy

Malnutrition (PEM) caused by inadequate
protein intake. Kwashiorkor is frequently
related to the occurrence of infectious
disease and anemia. Mortality rate caused
by kwashiorkor ranges 10% to 30%.
Otherwise, poor appetite in kwashiorkor is
the differentiator from marasmus.
 Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition.
It's most common in some developing regions of
the world where babies and children have a diet
that lacks protein and other essential nutrients.
The main sign of kwashiorkor is too much
fluid in the body's tissues, which causes swelling
under the skin (oedema). It usually begins in the
legs, but can involve the whole body, including
the face.
 Symptoms of kwashiorkor

• As well as oedema, symptoms of kwashiorkor can include:

• loss of muscle mass
• an enlarged tummy ("pot belly")
• regular infections, or more serious or long-lasting infections
than usual
• red, inflamed patches of skin that darken and peel or split
open
• dry, brittle hair that falls out easily and may lose its colour
• failure to grow in height
• tiredness or irritability
• ridged or cracked nails