In simple words: Kwashiorkor is a serious form of malnutrition affecting young children who don't get enough protein.It causes swelling, belly distension, skin and hair changes, and other health problems.

Kwashiorkor, also known as protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM), is a severe form of malnutrition primarily affecting infants and young children aged 1-3 years. It is characterized by a severe protein deficiency, often occurring after weaning, and can be exacerbated by infections, parasites, neglect, or poor dietary habits. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, muscle wasting, generalized edema, severe anemia, dry skin, changes in hair color, an enlarged fatty liver, infections, and growth retardation. Untreated kwashiorkor can lead to permanent physical or mental disabilities, coma, or even death. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, including blood and urine analysis to assess protein and blood glucose levels. Imaging studies, such as abdominal ultrasounds, may be used to evaluate liver enlargement. Treatment focuses on providing a protein-rich diet and vitamin supplements, with hospitalization required for severe cases to manage dehydration, hypoglycemia, anemia, and infections.

Example 1: A 2-year-old child from a developing country presents with a swollen abdomen, thin limbs, and patchy skin discoloration. Blood tests reveal hypoalbuminemia and anemia. The child is diagnosed with kwashiorkor., A neglected 18-month-old child is brought to the hospital with severe edema, skin lesions, and failure to thrive. After a thorough evaluation, including dietary history and laboratory tests, the child is diagnosed with kwashiorkor., A 3-year-old child with a history of recurrent infections and poor dietary intake develops generalized edema and changes in hair color.A diagnosis of kwashiorkor is made, and the child is admitted for nutritional support and treatment of infections.

Documentation should include a detailed history of dietary intake, signs and symptoms, physical examination findings, laboratory results (including albumin, prealbumin, complete blood count, and electrolyte levels), and any other relevant diagnostic tests, like abdominal ultrasound.Details of the treatment plan, including nutritional support and management of any complications, should also be documented.