Which statement is most true about marasmus?

Which statement is most true about marasmus?

• A. It involves edema and weight gain
• B. It is caused by excess protein intake
• C. Gradual wasting of body fat and somatic muscle with preservation of visceral proteins
• D. It is the same as Kwashiorkor

Answer: (C)

Marasmus reflects severe energy deficiency that drives the body to use its own fat and muscle stores, leading to gradual loss of body fat and somatic (muscle) tissue. At the same time, visceral protein levels are relatively preserved, so edema does not develop. This pattern contrasts with Kwashiorkor, where edema from low circulating albumin and other protein-related signs are common. So the description of gradual wasting of body fat and somatic muscle with preservation of visceral proteins best fits marasmus. The other statements describe features not typical of marasmus: edema and weight gain would point away from marasmus; marasmus is not caused by excess protein intake; and marasmus is distinct from Kwashiorkor.

Marasmus reflects severe energy deficiency that drives the body to use its own fat and muscle stores, leading to gradual loss of body fat and somatic (muscle) tissue. At the same time, visceral protein levels are relatively preserved, so edema does not develop. This pattern contrasts with Kwashiorkor, where edema from low circulating albumin and other protein-related signs are common. So the description of gradual wasting of body fat and somatic muscle with preservation of visceral proteins best fits marasmus. The other statements describe features not typical of marasmus: edema and weight gain would point away from marasmus; marasmus is not caused by excess protein intake; and marasmus is distinct from Kwashiorkor.