Protein-calorie malnutrition is characterized by inadequate protein intake. The result of this condition results in, among other things, a loss of weight and a dangerous decline in immunity. Also known simply as malnutrition, protein-calorie malnutrition is most commonly found in third-world countries where diets consist mainly of starchy foods and vegetables, but where there aren’t enough animal-based foods or their byproducts. Protein-calorie malnutrition is known to present itself in two distinct forms: kwashiorkor and marasmus.
A person affected by protein-calorie malnutrition is likely to have edema and dermatitis, as well as severe anemia and alopecia. These individuals also frequently experience a malfunctioning of key bodily functions. Parts of the body most severely affected by malnutrition include the kidney, the liver, the respiratory system, the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. People with this condition will also experience a marked decrease in muscle mass and poor wound healing, as well as a decreased immunity against a host of other diseases and viral infections.
One form of this condition is known as kwashiorkor. This specific type of malnutrition is common in places where drought, famine, war and other catastrophic events interrupt or outright prevent a healthy, balanced food supply. Beyond a compromised food supply, kwashiorkor may also be the result of infection and toxic exposure.
Kwashiorkor does occur in developed countries, although in these countries it more commonly stems from an abused individual being deliberately starved. The symptoms of kwashiorkor are also found in anorexic patients who have purposely starved themselves. This condition can sometimes occur even in hospital settings, particularly in cases of extremely ill individuals, such as those stricken by cancer. Protein-calorie malnutrition may also affect the elderly, individuals who have undergone gastric bypass surgery and infants with restricted diets.
Marasmus, a second type of protein-calorie malnutrition, is usually found in infants. This form primarily occurs when infants are switched from breastfeeding to solid foods that may be high in calories, but that still do not provide enough protein. Tuberculosis, HIV and gastrointestinal infections can also contribute to this type of protein-calorie malnutrition.
Protein-calorie malnutrition can be a fatal condition if not properly detected and treated in its earliest stages. The longer it is untreated, in fact, the higher the incidents of severe organ and tissue damage even in cases where malnutrition can be reversed. When it is not treated, however, a protein-calorie malnourished person will experience shock before entering a coma and eventually dying.