Marasmic kwashiorkor
Chapter 4:Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases
ICD-10 E42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of marasmic kwashiorkor.
Marasmic kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition characterized by a combination of marasmus and kwashiorkor. It typically occurs in children who are weaned from breast milk and do not receive adequate protein and caloric intake. The condition is marked by significant weight loss, muscle wasting, and edema. Children with marasmic kwashiorkor often present with a distended abdomen, skin changes, and hair discoloration. The underlying cause is usually a lack of sufficient dietary protein and calories, often exacerbated by infections or other health issues. This condition is prevalent in areas with food scarcity and can lead to severe complications, including immune dysfunction and increased mortality risk. Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, nutritional history, and anthropometric measurements. Treatment involves nutritional rehabilitation, addressing any underlying infections, and providing supportive care to restore health and prevent long-term sequelae.
Detailed growth charts, dietary history, and clinical assessments.
Children presenting with failure to thrive, recurrent infections, or developmental delays.
Consideration of socioeconomic factors affecting nutrition and access to food.
Comprehensive nutritional assessments and intervention plans.
Patients undergoing nutritional rehabilitation or those with chronic illnesses affecting intake.
Collaboration with other specialties to address underlying health issues.
Used for patients receiving nutritional counseling for malnutrition.
Document the patient's nutritional status and treatment plan.
Pediatric nutrition specialists may need to provide detailed growth and dietary assessments.
Marasmic kwashiorkor is primarily caused by a severe deficiency in both protein and caloric intake, often exacerbated by infections, socioeconomic factors, and inadequate dietary practices.
Treatment involves nutritional rehabilitation, which includes providing adequate protein and calories, addressing any underlying infections, and monitoring the patient's recovery closely.
