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MBBS QUESTION #10335
Question 1
A malnourished child presents with severe generalized edema, a distended abdomen with fatty liver, and skin/hair depigmentation, but with relatively preserved subcutaneous fat and an overall adequate total caloric intake apart from protein. This clinical picture is classic for:
  • Marasmus (a predominantly caloric/energy deficiency)
  • Kwashiorkor (a predominantly protein deficiency despite adequate total calories)✔️
  • Isolated vitamin A deficiency
  • Simple short-term starvation with normal serum albumin
Correct Answer Explanation
Kwashiorkor's edema reflects hypoalbuminemia from inadequate protein intake despite sufficient caloric intake (often from a diet with adequate starch but little protein); fatty liver results from impaired lipoprotein (apolipoprotein) synthesis needed to export hepatic triglycerides, distinguishing it from marasmus, where both protein and calories are severely deficient.