Kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is a condition characterized by deficiency of proteins. It occurs generally in children under 2 years of age. It occurs in children who do not take an adequate diet, are malnourished but especially deficient in protein containing foods. The child develops edema or swelling of the ankle and feet as well as puffiness of the eyes. The skin initially becomes dry and lusterless, and then starts peeling off. Skin lesions start developing. The hair initially becomes dry and lusterless, looses its colour and starts to fall. It can easily be plucked out. The weight is far below normal. The eyes becomes dry and less shiny. Patches appear on the face. These are patches of discolouration. The belly is protruding and liver is enlarged. The muscle mass is reduced and the arms and legs become thin. Mouth ulcers may develop. The child generally has diarrhea off and on.

This happens when there is a deficiency in the diet, specially protein deficiency. According to Dr Mubina Agboatwall – A child specialist in Karachi, the child becomes lethargic and does not eat well. Sometimes vomits out whatever he is eating. The mainstay of treatment is gradual introduction of protein containing foods. This includes eggs, meat, chicken, fish, lentils, butter, yogurt etc. However, the food should be introduced slowly as the child will vomit out or develop diarrhea. Small amounts should be given at frequent intervals. Gradually over 2 weeks the edema starts to disappear and the child becomes better. This should be accompanied by iron supplementation, vitamin A and B supplementation etc. Any associated complication like diarrhea, dysentery or septicemia should be treated. It may take 4-6 weeks for the condition to resolve.