10 Questions
What is the primary cause of kwashiorkor?
Inadequate protein intake
Which of the following is NOT a common clinical manifestation of kwashiorkor?
Hyperglycemia
What is the cause of the abdominal distension seen in kwashiorkor?
Hepatomegaly
What is the cause of the dry, full, hypopigmented hair seen in kwashiorkor?
Protein deficiency
Which of the following is NOT a common psychic change seen in kwashiorkor?
Irritability
What skin manifestation is commonly seen in kwashiorkor?
Hyperkeratosis
Which region is typically affected first by edema in kwashiorkor?
Abdomen
What is a common complication of kwashiorkor related to the liver?
Cirrhosis
Which of the following is a common symptom related to muscles in kwashiorkor?
Decreased muscle strength
What type of hair changes are observed in individuals with kwashiorkor?
Brittle hair that breaks easily
Study Notes
Kwashiorkor
- Kwashiorkor is a type of edematous malnutrition caused by a diet with inadequate protein but reasonably normal caloric intake.
- Clinical manifestations of kwashiorkor include:
- Peripheral pitting edema that begins in dependent regions and proceeds cranially
- Marked muscle atrophy
- Abdominal distension and hepatomegaly
- Round face (prominence of the cheeks, or “moon facies”)
- Thin, dry, peeling skin with confluent areas of scaling and hyperpigmentation
- Dry, full, hypopigmented hair that falls out
- Hepatomegaly (from fatty liver)
- Growth retardation
- Psychic changes (anorexia, apathy)
- Skin lesions/dermatitis (perineum, groin, limbs, ears, armpits)
- Subcutaneous fat retention with loose inner inguinal skin folds
Learn about the clinical manifestations of kwashiorkor, including pitting edema, muscle atrophy, abdominal distension, round face, and skin and hair changes. Understand how these symptoms result from inadequate protein intake despite normal caloric intake.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
