A

David

Darling

kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is protein malnutrition simultaneous with the maintenance of relatively adequate calorie intake. In affected children it causes edema, skin and hair changes, loss of appetite, diarrhea, liver disturbance, and apathy. Its name derives from its occurrence in children rejected from the breast at the birth of the next sibling. Treatment involves rehydration, treatment of infection, and a balanced diet with adequate protein.