What is the primary cause of the edema that accompanies kwashiorkor?
A) Albumin concentrations fall and fluid leaks into interstitial spaces.
B) Lipoprotein synthesis is diminished, causing fat to accumulate.
C) Protein is lost from the heart muscle, resulting in a weak heartbeat.
D) Synthesis of enzymes is reduced.
E) Deterioration of the digestive tract lining.

Question

What is the primary cause of the edema that accompanies kwashiorkor?​
A) ​Albumin concentrations fall and fluid leaks into interstitial spaces.
B) ​Lipoprotein synthesis is diminished, causing fat to accumulate.
C) ​Protein is lost from the heart muscle, resulting in a weak heartbeat.
D) ​Synthesis of enzymes is reduced.
E) ​Deterioration of the digestive tract lining.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition associated with a deficiency in dietary protein. This leads to a reduction in plasma oncotic pressure, meaning that there is less pressure pulling fluid from the interstitial spaces back into the capillaries. As a result, fluid accumulates in the interstitial spaces, causing edema. This is due to a decrease in the concentration of the protein albumin, which is responsible for maintaining plasma oncotic pressure. Therefore, the primary cause of the edema in kwashiorkor is the fall in albumin concentrations, leading to fluid leakage into interstitial spaces.

What Is the Primary Cause of the Edema That Accompanies