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Kwashiorkor
Medical Questions » Kwashiorkor
| Name: Kwashiorkor |
| Also known as: |
| Severe form of malnutrition. |
Causes of Kwashiorkor
A lack of protein in the diet, although adequate amounts of carbohydrates and fatty foods may be eaten. |
Symptoms of Kwashiorkor
Swollen belly, tiredness, thin limbs with swollen ankles, wasted muscles, a dry dermatitis, sparse hair, conjunctivitis and inflamed gums. Protein levels in the blood drop to a very low level which allows water to escape from blood and into tissues to give the characteristic bloated belly appearance. |
Tests for Kwashiorkor
Blood tests show very low protein levels. |
Treatment for Kwashiorkor
Small amounts of nutritious food frequently over several weeks before returning to a normal diet is essential to prevent an imbalance of chemicals in the blood.
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Complications of Kwashiorkor of its treatment
Permanent organ damage may occur if malnutrition is prolonged. |
Likely Outcome of Kwashiorkor
Good recovery with appropriate diet, but fatal otherwise. |
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