Kwashiorkor,a severe form of protein malnutrition,is characterized by

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Kwashiorkor,or protein malnutrition,is a severe deficiency in good quality protein.This can develop even if the patient is consuming an adequate number of calories.Because of the decrease in visceral proteins (especially albumin),edema may develop,particularly in the abdomen.This can also lead to decreased immune function.Weight can be within normal limits.Additional physical signs are scaly,flaky skin; depigmentation of the hair; enlarged liver; and mental apathy.It can occur with the ingestion of liquid diets that are low in protein,malabsorption diseases,hypermetabolic states,cancer,and AIDS.

Kwashiorkor,a Severe Form of Protein Malnutrition,is Characterized by