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Psychologically apathetic, miserable, and irritable.

PEM is a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide, often acting as an underlying factor in deaths caused by infectious diseases like measles, malaria, and diarrhea.

PEM is generally categorized based on the severity of the deficiency and the symptoms: A. Marasmus (Energy Deficiency)

Complete Blood Count (CBC) to evaluate for microcytic or macrocytic anemia. Blood Glucose (to rule out hypoglycemia). Serum Electrolytes (Potassium, Magnesium, Sodium).

Mostly affects children between 1 and 3 years of age.

Train caregivers on appropriate feeding practices, hygiene, and identifying early signs of relapse before discharge. 7. Complications and Prognosis

🚩 Feeding must be introduced slowly to avoid Refeeding Syndrome .

on the impact of PEM in specific regions.

Pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and septicemia present silently without typical features like fever. 5. Diagnostic Evaluation

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: It is not just a lack of protein; it is often a total energy deficit. 2. The Two Faces of PEM: Kwashiorkor vs. Marasmus

PEM is defined as a cellular deficiency of protein and energy (calories) that leads to significant impairment of bodily functions, impaired growth in children, muscle wasting, and reduced immunity.