How does a person with marasmus look like?

Over time, a person with marasmus will lose body tissue and fat in their face. Similarly, their bones become visible under their skin, and folds of skin develop from the loss of body mass. Their eyes may appear sunken.

What are the signs of marasmus?

The main symptom of marasmus is being underweight. Children with this condition have lost a lot of muscle mass and subcutaneous fat. Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat just under the skin. Dry skin and brittle hair are also symptoms of marasmus.

What is difference between marasmus and kwashiorkor?

Marasmus occurrence increases prior to age 1, whereas kwashiorkor occurrence increases after 18 months. It can be distinguished from kwashiorkor in that kwashiorkor is protein deficiency with adequate energy intake whereas marasmus is inadequate energy intake in all forms, including protein.

Is marasmus disease acquired?

In marasmus, a general acquired immunodeficiency occurs, with a decrease in secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) and an impairment of the nonspecific local defense system, such as mucosal integrity and lymphokine production. Bacteriemia, candidiasis, and Pneumocystis carinii infection are frequently present.

Which do doctors diagnose marasmus?

A doctor can often make a preliminary diagnosis of marasmus through a physical exam . Measurements, such as height and weight, can help determine whether a child has marasmus. When those measurements are well below the measurements that a healthy child of a particular age should have, marasmus may be the cause.

What are symptoms and causes of marasmus?

and other essential nutrients.

How does marasmus affect the body?

Children who suffer from marasmus display decreased activity, lethargy, behavioral changes, slowed growth , and weight loss. The subsequent effects on the body are wasting and a loss of subcutaneous fat and muscle, resulting in growth retardation. The majority of children who suffer from marasmus never return to age-appropriate growth standards.

What is the primary cause for Marasmus?

Causes of marasmus. Nutrient deficiency is the main cause of marasmus. It occurs in children that don’t ingest enough protein, calories, carbohydrates, and other important nutrients. This is usually due to poverty and a scarcity of food.