Protein-deficient, calorie malnutrition, emaciated appearance describes which condition?

Protein-deficient, calorie malnutrition, emaciated appearance describes which condition?

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

Answer: (A)

When the body receives far too little energy and protein over a long period, it turns to its own tissues for fuel, leading to severe wasting of both fat and muscle. This results in an extremely thin, emaciated appearance, with little subcutaneous fat and wasted muscles. That pattern is classic for marasmus, a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized primarily by energy deficiency and marked wasting without edema. In contrast, kwashiorkor tends to involve edema and a swollen belly due to fluid retention and fatty changes in the liver, even if some weight loss is present. Rickets is caused by vitamin D deficiency and shows bone deformities like bowed legs. Scurvy arises from vitamin C deficiency and presents with gum disease, easy bruising, and poor wound healing. So the description fits marasmus, the severe energy and protein deficiency leading to pronounced wasting and an emaciated look.

When the body receives far too little energy and protein over a long period, it turns to its own tissues for fuel, leading to severe wasting of both fat and muscle. This results in an extremely thin, emaciated appearance, with little subcutaneous fat and wasted muscles. That pattern is classic for marasmus, a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized primarily by energy deficiency and marked wasting without edema.

In contrast, kwashiorkor tends to involve edema and a swollen belly due to fluid retention and fatty changes in the liver, even if some weight loss is present. Rickets is caused by vitamin D deficiency and shows bone deformities like bowed legs. Scurvy arises from vitamin C deficiency and presents with gum disease, easy bruising, and poor wound healing.

So the description fits marasmus, the severe energy and protein deficiency leading to pronounced wasting and an emaciated look.