Define marasmus.

Define marasmus.

• A. Gradual wasting of body fat and somatic muscle with preservation of visceral proteins
• B. Sudden edema with preserved muscle tissue
• C. Loss of visceral proteins with edema
• D. Hypermetabolic state with muscle gain

Answer: (A)

Marasmus is a chronic energy-deficiency malnutrition characterized by gradual wasting of both fat stores and skeletal muscle, leading to an emaciated appearance. Visceral protein stores, such as albumin, are relatively preserved in the early stages because hepatic protein synthesis continues despite the overall energy deficit, so edema is not a defining feature. This pattern of losing body fat and somatic (muscle) tissue while keeping visceral proteins describes marasmus best. In contrast, edema with preserved muscle or loss of visceral proteins with edema aligns with kwashiorkor, and a hypermetabolic state with muscle gain does not fit malnutrition.

Marasmus is a chronic energy-deficiency malnutrition characterized by gradual wasting of both fat stores and skeletal muscle, leading to an emaciated appearance. Visceral protein stores, such as albumin, are relatively preserved in the early stages because hepatic protein synthesis continues despite the overall energy deficit, so edema is not a defining feature. This pattern of losing body fat and somatic (muscle) tissue while keeping visceral proteins describes marasmus best. In contrast, edema with preserved muscle or loss of visceral proteins with edema aligns with kwashiorkor, and a hypermetabolic state with muscle gain does not fit malnutrition.