143 - Protein-Energy Malnutrition in Children

Abstract

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a common childhood disorder and is primarily caused by deficiency of energy, protein, and micronutrients. PEM manifests as underweight (low body weight compared with healthy peers), stunting (poor linear growth), wasting (acute weight loss), or edematous malnutrition (kwashiorkor). Case fatality rates among children hospitalized with severe wasting or edema (also known as severe acute malnutrition [SAM]) range from 5% to 30%. All forms of PEM are associated with increased risk of infectious illnesses and cognitive deficit. Children with SAM and associated acute illnesses should be treated in a hospital setting using World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Management of most forms of PEM can be done in the community setting by improving household food security, promoting appropriate complementary food, providing micronutrients, providing anti-helminthic treatment, and preventing (e.g., by vaccines) and treating infectious illnesses.