A protein deficiency that can cause edema is known as what?

A protein deficiency that can cause edema is known as what?

• A. Kwashiorkor
• B. Marasmus
• C. Anemia
• D. Scurvy

Answer: (A)

Protein deficiency causing edema occurs because a lack of protein lowers the level of albumin in the blood. Albumin helps keep fluids inside blood vessels; when albumin drops, fluid leaks into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling known as edema. This presentation is characteristic of Kwashiorkor, a form of protein-energy malnutrition where adequate calories may be consumed but protein intake is insufficient. Marasmus, by contrast, is a severe energy deficiency that leads to wasting and very low body weight without the pronounced edema seen in Kwashiorkor. Anemia involves insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin and isn’t defined by edema. Scurvy is a vitamin C deficiency with symptoms like gum disease and poor wound healing, not edema.

Protein deficiency causing edema occurs because a lack of protein lowers the level of albumin in the blood. Albumin helps keep fluids inside blood vessels; when albumin drops, fluid leaks into surrounding tissues, leading to swelling known as edema. This presentation is characteristic of Kwashiorkor, a form of protein-energy malnutrition where adequate calories may be consumed but protein intake is insufficient.

Marasmus, by contrast, is a severe energy deficiency that leads to wasting and very low body weight without the pronounced edema seen in Kwashiorkor. Anemia involves insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin and isn’t defined by edema. Scurvy is a vitamin C deficiency with symptoms like gum disease and poor wound healing, not edema.