Explore the Characteristics of Kwashiorkor and Marasmus
To comprehend the distinction between Kwashiorkor and Marasmus, it is essential to recognize the diseases resulting from vitamin and mineral deficiencies and their impact on the body. Kwashiorkor is a nutrient deficiency commonly observed in areas affected by famine, whereas Marasmus is characterized by severe undernutrition, involving a deficiency of all macronutrients.
What are Deficiency Diseases?
When the body does not receive enough essential nutrients or dietary elements such as vitamins and minerals, it can lead to a condition referred to as deficiency disease. Keeping a balanced diet is vital for overall well-being. An imbalance in one’s diet can result in the excessive or insufficient intake of specific nutrients. Insufficient levels of a particular vitamin can lead to a deficiency disease. Specifically, a shortage of a vitamin or mineral can cause this condition known as deficiency disease.
Why are Vitamins and Minerals Important?
The body needs micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, for various everyday functions. However, these micronutrients must be obtained from our diet, as our bodies cannot synthesize them. Vitamin are classified into two category: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Minerals are inorganic compounds present in soil and water that can be absorbed and consumed by plants and animals. In addition to calcium, sodium, and potassium, there are several other minerals, including trace minerals like copper, iodine, and zinc, which are required in very small quantities.
What are the Effects of Nutrient Deficiency?
When you experience protein-energy undernutrition (macronutrient deficiency), your body does not have enough energy to sustain itself. In response, it begins to break down its own tissues and ceases to function properly. The body first utilizes fat reserves, followed by muscle, skin, hair, and nails. People who are weak and thin often show signs of protein-energy undernutrition. Children, in particular, may grow and develop at a slower pace if they lack essential nutrients.
What is Kwashiorkor and Marasmus?
Kwashiorkor is a type of nutrient deficiency commonly observed in areas experiencing famine. Often referred to as “edematous malnutrition” because of its association with edema (fluid retention), it represents a form of malnutrition resulting from a diet low in protein. Individuals with kwashiorkor typically have very thin bodies, except for their ankles, feet, and abdomen, which swell due to fluid accumulation.
What Causes Kwashiorkor?
Kwashiorkor results from inadequate protein intake in the diet. Proteins make up the structure of every cell in your body. Your body requires dietary protein to repair and regenerate damaged cells. In a healthy human body, cell regeneration occurs continuously. Protein is vital for growth during both pregnancy and adolescence. A lack of protein can trigger the body to start halting its regular functions, such as growth, resulting in the development of kwashiorkor.
Symptoms of Kwashiorkor
Kwashiorkor symptoms include:
- Changes in skin and hair color (to a rusty hue) and texture.
- Exhaustion
- Diarrhea
- Muscle mass loss
- Inability to acquire weight or grow
- Swelling (edema) in the ankles, feet, and abdomen can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to frequent and severe infections.
- Irritability
- Shock,
- A rash or multiple rashes
Marasmus refers to severe undernutrition characterized by a deficiency of all macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, that the body requires for proper functioning. This condition leads to noticeable atrophy of fat and muscle beneath the skin, giving individuals a gaunt appearance. In children, marasmus can result in hindered growth and development.
What are the Causes of Marasmus?
Marasmus is primarily caused by a deficiency in essential nutrients. It impacts children who lack adequate protein, calories, carbohydrates, and other vital nutrients. This condition is often a result of hunger and poverty. It is more commonly seen in developing countries where resources are scarce, and children do not obtain sufficient nutrition from their diets.
Symptoms of Marasmus
Some common signs that indicate the onset of Marasmus include-
- Muscle and fat loss are clearly visible.
- Visible skeleton.
- The head seems enormous compared to the body.
- The face could look senile and aged.
- Skin that is dry and hangs (skin atrophy).
- Hair loss or brittle, dry hair.
- Infants with recessed fontanelles.
- Weakness, apathy, and lethargy.
- A 40%+ reduction in body weight.
- Low BMI(Basal Metabolic rate).
Kwashiorkor and Marasmus Difference:
|
S.No |
Category | Kwashiorkor |
Marasmus |
| 1 | Cause | Protein deficiency is the major cause. | All macro and micronutrients including
vitamins, minerals, and calories may be deficient. |
| 2 | Edema | Accumulation of water results in edema. | No edema is observed. |
| 3 | Age | Children aged 6 months to 3 years are particularly vulnerable. | Children aged 6 months to 1 year are often impacted. |
| 4 | Fat content | Subcutaneous fat is present. | Complete loss of fat due to the limited food
supply. |
| 5 | Weight | Less weight loss is observed because calorie
intake is normal. |
Severe weight loss resulting from lack of
macronutrients. |
| 6 | Skin | Skin appears shiny and flaky due to
hyperpigmentation. |
Skin is dry and wrinkled. |
| 7 | Treatment | A sufficient protein supply is needed to
reverse symptoms. |
A balanced diet including proteins, carbs, and
fats is required. |
Summary
Kwashiorkor is characterized by a significant deficiency of protein in children, while marasmus involves a critical lack of nutrients and insufficient calorie intake. This is the primary difference between the two conditions. Both kwashiorkor and marasmus are among the most common deficiencies and often impact infants and children aged 1 to 5. They contribute to both illness and elevated mortality rates among children under five years old.
