Protein energy malnutrition laboratory tests

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Kwashiorkor
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Omodamola Aje B.Sc, M.D. [2]

Overview

Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of protein energy malnutrition include abnormally low blood glucose,

Laboratory findings

Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of protein energy malnutrition include:

• Abnormally low blood glucose
• Abnormal blood smears by microscopy or direct detection testing
• Decreased serum hemoglobin
• Abnormal urinalysis and culture

Specific laboratory findings in patients with kwashiorkor include:

• Hypoalbuminemia (10-25 g/L)
• Hypoproteinemia (transferrin, essential amino acids, lipoprotein)
• Hypoglycemia
• Elevated plasma cortisol and growth hormone levels
• Decreased insulin secretion and insulin-like growth factor
• Increased percentage of body water and extracellular water
• Depletion of electrolytes, especially potassium and magnesium
• Decreased levels of some enzymes (including lactase)
• Iron deficiency anemia and metabolic acidosis

Specific laboratory findings in patients with marasmus include:

• Increased urinary 3-methylhistidine, a reflection of muscle breakdown
• Urinary excretion of hydroxyproline is diminished, reflecting impaired growth and wound healing
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Metabolic acidosis