Marasmus
Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition, marked by significant weight loss, depletion of muscle and subcutaneous fat, and an overall emaciated appearance. It is primarily caused by a chronic deficiency in calories and proteins[1].
Causes[edit | edit source]
Marasmus usually arises from a stark deficit in overall caloric intake. This shortage is often associated with poverty, limited food supply, or a lack of knowledge about proper nutrition. It's also common in infants and young children, particularly in regions where malnutrition is prevalent.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with marasmus appear extremely thin and wasted with nearly all fat stores depleted. They often display signs of chronic hunger and dehydration. Mental changes such as irritability and apathy may be observed. Immune function is typically compromised, leading to susceptibility to infections[2].
Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and patient history. Laboratory tests may be used to confirm malnutrition and rule out other conditions.
The mainstay of treatment is the gradual reintroduction of balanced, nutrient-rich foods. Care must be taken to manage 'refeeding syndrome,' a potentially dangerous shift in fluids and electrolytes that can occur when malnourished patients receive artificial refeeding[3]. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of marasmus involves ensuring adequate nutrition, particularly in regions where food supply may be unstable. Education on balanced diets and early recognition of malnutrition signs are crucial.
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ "Kwashiorkor and marasmus are both associated with impaired glucose clearance related to pancreatic β-cell dysfunction". National Institutes of Health. Retrieved 2023-06-21.
- ↑ "Malnutrition and the Role of Nutritional Support for the Hospitalized Patient". National Institutes of Health. Retrieved 2023-06-21.
- ↑ "Refeeding syndrome: what it is, and how to prevent and treat it". National Institutes of Health. Retrieved 2023-06-21.
| Marasmus Resources | |
|---|---|
|
 |
| Marasmus Resources | |
|---|---|
|
|
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
