Six-month-old Luka's weight, height, and head circumference are substantially below age-related growth norms. Luka is withdrawn and apathetic. Luka's mother sometimes appears depressed and distant, at other times impatient and hostile. Luka most likely suffers from
A) growth faltering.
B) malnutrition.
C) marasmus.
D) food insecurity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Luka's growth being below age-related norms and being withdrawn and apathetic are indicators of growth faltering, which is a failure to thrive and grow at the expected rate. Luka's mother's alternating behavior may suggest a lack of consistent care, which may contribute to growth faltering. Malnutrition, marasmus, and food insecurity are all possible causes of growth faltering, but not enough information is provided to determine which one specifically is affecting Luka.

Six-Month-Old Luka's Weight, Height, and Head Circumference Are Substantially Below