Kwashiorkor on the south shore

J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2021 Jun 21;11(4):528-530. doi: 10.1080/20009666.2021.1933718.

Abstract

Kwashiorkor syndrome is a form of severe protein-energy malnutrition characterized by protein deficiency and bilateral extremity swelling. Worldwide, most affected regions include Southeast Asia, South Africa and Central America; it is rare in developed countries such as the USA. We report a case of profound kwashiorkor in a 38-year-old male with an underlying psychiatric disorder and restricted diet who presented with extensive abdominal distention and systemic findings indicative of protein malnutrition.

Keywords: Kwashiorkor syndrome; protein deficiency; severe malnutrition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports