PEM Full Form

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a condition caused by a deficiency of protein and calories, leading to growth failure, muscle loss, and weakened immunity. It commonly affects children and includes diseases like Kwashiorkor (protein deficiency) and Marasmus (severe calorie deficiency). Proper nutrition and medical care are essential for prevention and treatment.

Types of PEM:

There are two types of Protein-energy malnutrition:-

• Marasmus/ PEM without edema

• Kwashiorkor/PEM with edema

Marasmus 

Marasmus is a form of severe malnutrition caused by a deficiency of both calories and protein, leading to extreme weight loss, muscle wasting, and stunted growth. Affected children appear thin with sunken eyes, dry skin, and prominent bones. Unlike Kwashiorkor, it lacks edema. Causes include chronic infections, poor maternal nutrition, and food scarcity. Treatment involves gradual refeeding with nutrient-rich foods to restore health.

Kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is categorized under peripheral edema, hypoalbuminemia, hepatomegaly, muscle wasting, apathy, and anorexia. It is commonly associated with fluid retention, flaky dermatosis, hair discoloration, and impaired wound healing.

The term "Kwashiorkor" originates from an African phrase meaning "the disease that occurs when the next baby is born", highlighting its link to early childhood malnutrition. Initially, it was believed to be caused by a low-protein, high-calorie diet, but recent studies suggest that dietary protein deficiency alone is not the sole cause.

Other possible causes include immune dysfunction, oxidative stress, aflatoxin poisoning, gut microbiome imbalance, and metabolic abnormalities. Treatment requires gradual nutritional rehabilitation to prevent complications like refeeding syndrome.

Mixed Marasmus-Kwashiorkor

Mixed Marasmus-Kwashiorkor is a severe protein-energy malnutrition condition showing both muscle wasting (marasmus) and edema (kwashiorkor). It results from prolonged malnutrition, infections, and immune dysfunction. Affected individuals have extreme weight loss, fluid retention, and skin issues. Treatment involves gradual refeeding, protein supplementation, and medical care to prevent complications.

Evidence Recorded of PEM

Studies on Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) highlight its prevalence in developing countries, especially among children under five. According to the WHO, nearly 45% of child deaths under five are linked to malnutrition. Research links PEM to growth stunting, cognitive impairment, and weakened immunity. Clinical evidence shows cases of Kwashiorkor, Marasmus, and Mixed PEM due to nutritional deficiencies, infections, and poverty. Early intervention with proper nutrition and healthcare has proven effective in reducing PEM-related mortality.

Diagnosis of the PEM Disease

The diagnosis of Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is based on clinical assessment, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory tests. Key diagnostic methods include:

• Anthropometry – Measuring weight-for-age, height-for-age, and BMI to identify stunting, wasting, or underweight conditions.

• Clinical Signs – Checking for edema, muscle wasting, hair changes, and skin lesions, common in Kwashiorkor and Marasmus.

• Blood Tests – Assessing serum albumin levels, electrolyte imbalance, and micronutrient deficiencies (iron, zinc, and vitamins).

• Immunity Markers – Evaluating immune suppression and susceptibility to infections.

Early diagnosis through growth monitoring and medical evaluations helps in timely treatment and recovery.

Conclusion

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a severe nutritional disorder affecting growth, immunity, and overall health, especially in children. It includes conditions like Marasmus, Kwashiorkor, and Mixed PEM, caused by caloric and protein deficiencies.

Early diagnosis, proper nutrition, and healthcare interventions are crucial for prevention and treatment. Addressing poverty, food security, and maternal health can significantly reduce PEM cases and improve overall well-being. Get the best NEET study material from Vedantu and score high in your exams with confidence.

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