Nutritional marasmus
Chapter 4:Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases
ICD-10 E41 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nutritional marasmus.
Nutritional marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by inadequate intake of calories and protein, leading to significant weight loss and muscle wasting. It primarily affects children but can also occur in adults, particularly in situations of famine, chronic illness, or inadequate dietary intake. The condition is marked by a deficiency in both macronutrients and micronutrients, resulting in a state of energy depletion. Clinically, patients present with a thin, emaciated appearance, decreased subcutaneous fat, and muscle wasting. Unlike kwashiorkor, which is primarily due to protein deficiency with adequate caloric intake, marasmus results from an overall deficiency in energy intake. The pathophysiology involves a catabolic state where the body utilizes its own fat and muscle stores for energy, leading to a weakened immune response and increased susceptibility to infections. Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, anthropometric measurements, and dietary history. Treatment focuses on gradual nutritional rehabilitation, addressing both caloric and protein needs, and managing any underlying health issues contributing to malnutrition.
Detailed growth charts, dietary assessments, and clinical evaluations.
Children presenting with failure to thrive, weight loss, or chronic illness.
Consideration of developmental milestones and family dietary habits.
Comprehensive dietary history and nutritional assessments.
Patients with chronic illnesses requiring nutritional intervention.
Focus on individualized nutrition plans and monitoring.
Used for patients diagnosed with nutritional marasmus requiring dietary intervention.
Document the patient's nutritional status and treatment plan.
Nutrition specialists should provide detailed assessments.
Marasmus is characterized by overall energy deficiency leading to weight loss and muscle wasting, while kwashiorkor is primarily due to protein deficiency with adequate caloric intake, often presenting with edema and other signs of protein deficiency.
