Q.36 Kwashiorkor disease is linked with insufficient intake of
1. carbohydrates
2. proteins
3. vitamin C
4. electrolytes
Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition primarily affecting young children, characterized by edema, fatty liver, and growth failure due to inadequate protein despite sufficient calorie intake from carbs.
Correct Answer
2. proteins
Insufficient dietary protein impairs synthesis of plasma proteins like albumin, causing hypoalbuminemia, reduced oncotic pressure, and fluid retention (edema)—hallmark of kwashiorkor, unlike marasmus (total calorie deficit).
Option Analysis
Carbohydrates (Option 1)
Carb deficiency leads to marasmus (wasting without edema); kwashiorkor patients often consume carb-rich foods (e.g., maize) but lack quality protein.
Proteins (Option 2)
Correct: Protein malnutrition disrupts visceral protein synthesis, immunity, and enzyme production, explaining skin/hair changes, infections, and potbelly in affected kids.
Vitamin C (Option 3)
Causes scurvy (bleeding gums, poor wound healing); no edema or fatty liver link—purely ascorbic acid deficiency.
Electrolytes (Option 4)
Imbalances cause dehydration/hyponatremia but not kwashiorkor’s specific protein-deficit signs like dermatosis or apathy.
| Option | Deficiency Disease | Key Signs | Edema Present? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Marasmus | Wasting, no edema | No |
| Proteins | Kwashiorkor | Edema, fatty liver | Yes |
| Vitamin C | Scurvy | Bleeding gums | No |
| Electrolytes | Dehydration | Muscle cramps | Variable |
Clinical Relevance
Early protein refeeding reverses kwashiorkor; vital for exams like NEET, as it differentiates from other malnutritions in famine-prone areas.
