Pitting edema with “flaky paint” dermatosis, sparse hypopigmented hair, and behavioral changes in a setting of food insecurity is consistent with kwashiorkor. A form of severe acute malnutrition, kwashiorkor results from insufficient protein intake leading to hypoalbuminemia and fluid redistribution. Therefore, cautious nutritional rehabilitation and correction of micronutrient deficiencies are the cornerstones of treatment. Although more common in resource-limited regions, kwashiorkor can still emerge in high-income countries, particularly among patients following restrictive diets.
Comment
Pitting edema with “flaky paint” dermatosis, sparse hypopigmented hair, and behavioral changes in a setting of food insecurity is consistent with kwashiorkor. A form of severe acute malnutrition, kwashiorkor results from insufficient protein intake leading to hypoalbuminemia and fluid redistribution. Therefore, cautious nutritional rehabilitation and correction of micronutrient deficiencies are the cornerstones of treatment. Although more common in resource-limited regions, kwashiorkor can still emerge in high-income countries, particularly among patients following restrictive diets.