Kwashiorkor
Original Editors - Kevin Boothe from Bellarmine University's Pathophysiology of Complex Patient Problems project.
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Definition/Description[edit | edit source]
Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition that occurs when there is not enough protein in the diet.1 It is most often encountered in children of overpopulated developing or underdeveloped countries, where their diet consist mostly of grains and starchy vegetables, with low to minimal amounts of protein included in their diet. This diet is adequate in calories, but deficient in certain amino acids, which constituents proteins for vital growth. During nursing, the mother is able to supply the essential amino acids and proteins needed via breastfeeding. After the child is weaned from breastfeeding, their protein needs are neither met by milk or meat.2,3
Prevalence[edit | edit source]
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Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Symptoms:
- changes in skin pigment
- decreased muscle mass
- diarrhea
- failure to gain weight
- fatigue
- hair changes (change in color or texture)
- increased risk and severity of infections due to compromised immune system
- irritability (excessive response to a stimulus)
- distended abdomen
- lethargy (fatigue) or apathy (lack of feeling or emotion)
- atrophy
- dermatitis
- shock
- edema
Associated Co-morbidities[edit | edit source]
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Medications[edit | edit source]
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Diagnostic Tests/Lab Tests/Lab Values[edit | edit source]
Arterial Blood Gas (ABGs)
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
CBC (Complete Blood Count)
Creatinine clearance
Serum creatinine
Serum potassium
Total protein levels
Urinalysis
Etiology/Causes[edit | edit source]
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Systemic Involvement[edit | edit source]
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Medical Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Physical Therapy Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Alternative/Holistic Management (current best evidence)[edit | edit source]
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Differential Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
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Case Reports/ Case Studies[edit | edit source]
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Resources
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Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]
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References[edit | edit source]
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