Kwashiorkor: Protein Deficiency in Children – Signs, Complications, and Long-Term Effects

Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition affecting children 1–3 years old, typically after weaning onto a carbohydrate-rich, protein-poor diet.

Clinical Features

• Edema: Periorbital, pedal, abdominal (due to hypoalbuminemia).
• "Moon face" and "sugar baby" appearance.
• Dermatosis: Flaky paint dermatitis, hyper/hypopigmentation.
• Hair changes: Thin, sparse, easily pluckable, color bands (flag sign).
• Growth failure: Stunting, weight loss masked by edema.
• Hepatomegaly: Fatty liver.
• Immune dysfunction: High infection susceptibility.
• Behavioral: Apathy, irritability, anorexia.

Long-Term Consequences

• Permanent cognitive impairment and stunted growth.
• Increased lifelong susceptibility to infections and metabolic disease.

Treatment

Phased nutritional rehabilitation (stabilization, catch-up growth) with careful electrolyte monitoring, infection control, and micronutrient supplementation. Prevention requires food security and nutrition education.