A 7-month-old boy has failed to gain weight normally. His diet consists of a diluted milk formula. His weight and length are below normal for his age, and he appears emaciated. His temperature is below normal, and his pulse is slow. Which of the following is the most likely cause of his condition?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described, such as failure to gain weight, emaciation, and a diet of diluted milk formula, are indicative of marasmus, which is a form of severe malnutrition due to inadequate intake of calories and protein. Marasmus is generally known as the gradual wasting away of the body due to severe malnutrition or inadequate absorption of food. It is a severe form of malnutrition caused by inadequate intake of proteins and calories. A child with marasmus looks emaciated and body weight is reduced to less than 60% of the normal body weight for the age. Marasmus 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.

A 7-Month-Old Boy Has Failed to Gain Weight Normally