Question

A 2 years baby with 6.7 kg, Hb% - 6 mg/dl total protein 3mg/dL, low albumin with distended stomach but no proteinuria. What will be the diagnosis ?

• A. Marasmu
• B. Kwashiorkor
• C. Indian childhood cirrhosis
• D. None

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine the diagnosis for the baby, we analyze the given symptoms and laboratory findings:

• Age: 2 years
• Weight: 6.7 kg
• Hemoglobin Level (Hb%): 6 mg/dL, which indicates anemia
• Total Protein: 3 mg/dL, indicating low protein levels
• Low Albumin: Suggests hypoalbuminemia
• Distended Stomach: Could indicate edema or ascites
• Absence of Proteinuria: Means no significant protein loss through urine

Given these features, let's evaluate the potential diagnoses:

• Kwashiorkor: Characterized by protein malnutrition, leading to edema (distended stomach), hypoalbuminemia, and anemia.
• Marasmus: A form of severe malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, leading to significant weight loss, muscle wasting, but not typically associated with edema.
• Indian Childhood Cirrhosis: A liver condition not primarily diagnosed through these symptoms or lab values.
• None: Unlikely, as symptoms clearly indicate malnutrition.

Based on the information, the most likely diagnosis for the baby is Kwashiorkor, given the presence of low albumin, distended stomach, and protein deficiency without protein loss through urine.