Marasmus is a disease due to the deficiency of both proteins and calories.The child is weaned out before one year of age and is given a diet low in both proteins and carbohydrates.
Effects of marasmus on a child:
- Due to the deficiency of carbohydrates and fats, proteins will be used up for generating energy.
- Due to protein deficiency, body growth will be reduced. As a result child looks smaller for the age and emaciated.
- The body weight will be less than 60% of the expected weight for that age.
- The limbs will be thin and the ribs are prominent in the child.
- There is no swelling of limbs.
- The muscles are less well developed and there is no fat under the skin.
- Due to this the skin will be dry and there will be loose folds of skin.
- Abdomen gives a swollen look.
- Hair growth is inadequate and the hair will have a faded colour.
- Body defence mechanisms are also not well developed. Therefore the child suffers from infections and diarrhoea.
- The child is highly irritable and has voracious appetite.
- The child shows very little interest in the surroundings and in physical and mental activities.