marasmus

Marasmus Description

Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, typically affecting children [8]. It results in body weight dropping below 62% of the expected weight for age, and is often accompanied by wasting, or the loss of body fat and muscle [1].

The main symptom of marasmus is being underweight, with children having lost a lot of muscle mass and subcutaneous fat [5]. This condition can occur in anyone with severe malnutrition, but it usually affects children who have inadequate intake of both protein and calories [6].

Marasmus is also known as a form of protein-energy malnutrition, which occurs when the body does not receive enough energy and protein to function properly [3][7]. It is characterized by wasting, muscle weakness, and a general feeling of being unwell.

In summary, marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition that affects children and is characterized by weight loss, wasting, and energy deficiency.

Marasmus Signs and Symptoms

Marasmus, a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition, can cause a range of symptoms that affect various aspects of an individual's health. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of marasmus:

• Weight loss: Marasmus leads to significant weight loss, particularly in children, due to inadequate calorie intake.
• Stunted growth: The condition causes growth retardation, with weight loss being more pronounced than height loss.
• Muscle wasting: Progressive wasting of subcutaneous fat and muscle mass is a hallmark of marasmus, making the bones of the skeleton increasingly visible.
• Behavioral changes: Marasmus can lead to behavioral changes, such as irritability, lack of emotion, and difficulty concentrating.
• Dehydration: Dehydration is a common symptom of marasmus, particularly in children.
• Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea is another symptom associated with marasmus.
• Low blood pressure: Individuals with marasmus may experience low blood pressure due to inadequate nutrition.
• Fatigue: Fatigue and lack of energy are common complaints among those affected by marasmus.
• Difficulty staying warm: Some people with marasmus may have difficulty staying warm, even in mild temperatures.

These symptoms can vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition. If left untreated, marasmus can lead to life-threatening complications, such as organ failure and increased susceptibility to infections.

References:

[1] Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition that affects children. It can cause weight loss, stunted growth, infections, and organ failure. Learn how to diagnose and treat marasmus and

Marasmus, also known as severe malnutrition or wasting, can be challenging to diagnose using blood tests alone. However, a combination of physical examination and laboratory studies can help determine the presence of this condition.

Physical Examination

• A doctor may perform a skin test to assess the functioning of the immune system.
• The middle-upper arm circumference (MUAC) is measured to check for malnutrition.
• Edema, or swelling in the feet and hands, may be present in cases of kwashiorkor, which can be ruled out by checking for edema.

Laboratory Studies

• Blood tests can be done to determine protein deficiency and deficiencies in other major minerals and vitamins.
• Hematological studies, such as measuring hemoglobin levels, can help assess malnutrition.
• Laboratory studies evaluating protein status are also helpful in assessing malnutrition in children.

It's essential to note that marasmus is difficult to diagnose using blood tests alone, as many children with marasmus also have infections that can affect blood test results. A comprehensive physical examination and laboratory studies are necessary to determine the presence of this condition.

References

• [3] May 29, 2023 - In children, doctors measure the girth of the middle-upper arm to check for malnutrition.
• [6] September 27, 2024 - Stunting is calculated the same ... height for age ratios. Measurements are also taken via the middle-upper arm circumference (MUAC).
• [9] Jul 5, 2022 — The most helpful laboratory studies in assessing malnutrition in a child are hematological studies and laboratory studies evaluating protein status.
• [4] July 27, 2023 - Marasmus, or 'wasting,' is a form of severe malnutrition that results from a lack of protein and calories.

Marasmus, a severe form of protein-energy undernutrition, requires prompt medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications. According to various sources [1][3][5], the treatment for marasmus typically involves:

• Rehydration: Intravenous (IV) rehydration is recommended using a Ringer-lactate solution with 5% dextrose or a mixture of 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% glucose [2].
• Nutritional support: A well-balanced diet is essential to provide the necessary calories, protein, and micronutrients for recovery [7][9]. This may involve administering nutritional supplements, such as antibiotics or other medications, to treat any underlying infections.
• Antimicrobial agents: In cases of marasmus caused by bacterial or protozoal infections, antimicrobial agents may be prescribed to treat the infection [5].
• Antipyretic and analgesic agents: Medications may be given to manage fever and pain associated with marasmus [5].

It's essential to note that treatment for marasmus should only be administered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Early recognition and intervention are critical in preventing long-term complications and improving outcomes.

References:

[1] Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy undernutrition, causing visible wasting and stunted growth in children [1]. [2] In cases of shock, intravenous (IV) rehydration is recommended using a Ringer-lactate solution with 5% dextrose or a mixture of 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% glucose [2]. [3] Marasmus, or 'wasting,' is a form of severe malnutrition that results from a lack of protein and calories [3]. [4] Marasmus can be life-threatening, but you can get treatment for it [4]. [5] Marasmus Medication: Antimicrobial agents, Antiprotozoal agents, Antipyretic and analgesic agents [5]. [6] Treatment for Marasmus​​ Few antibiotics or other medications are given to treat children with pathogenic infections. A well-balanced diet is given once after recovery [6]. [7] To maintain the physiological requirements of the body, it is essential to take a sufficient amount of micro and macronutrients; however, the overconsumption of micronutrients and macronutrients can also be harmful [8]. [9] Nutritionally the best way to prevent marasmus is through a diverse and adequate diet. Other interventions that also target nutrition specific interventions are through SAM treatment, CTC [9].

Understanding Differential Diagnosis in Marasmus

Marasmus, a severe form of malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, requires accurate differential diagnosis to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. The main differential diagnoses for marasmus include:

• Kwashiorkor: A form of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) that is often confused with marasmus due to its similar presentation. However, kwashiorkor is distinguished by the presence of edema.
• Other diseases causing failure to thrive: Conditions such as recurrent infections, skin and hair changes, and wasting can be mistaken for marasmus. It's essential to consider these differential diagnoses when evaluating a patient with suspected marasmus.

Key Factors in Differential Diagnosis

When differentiating between marasmus and other conditions, clinicians should consider the following factors:

• Presence of edema: The absence or presence of edema is a crucial factor in distinguishing between marasmus (without edema) and kwashiorkor (with edema).
• Socioeconomic status: Inadequate intake or malnutrition can be supported by socioeconomic factors, making it essential to consider these when evaluating patients with suspected marasmus.
• Clinical presentation: A thorough clinical evaluation is necessary to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

References

• [1] Marasmus is one of the 3 forms of serious protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). The other 2 forms are kwashiorkor (KW) and marasmic KW. [Context: #1]
• Malnutrition without edema is marasmus; with edema, it is kwashiorkor. Thus, the presence or absence of edema should not sway a clinician away from considering these differential diagnoses. [Context: #2]
• The differential diagnosis includes all pathologies that present with PEM secondary to diseases that weaken the body, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). [Context: #4]