Question

Breast feeding of an infant less than a year old, is replaced by food deficient in proteins and calories. The child suffers from

• A. Rickets
• B. Marasmus
• C. Pellagra
• D. Kwashiorkor

Answer 1

The correct option is B Marasmus

Marasmus is a condition where a simultaneous deficiency of proteins and calories can be seen in infants. It is generally found in infants less than a year in age. This condition occurs when there is an early replacement of mother’s milk by other food materials that lack proteins and calories which are required by the infants. In such infants, impaired growth is observed. Their bodies become extremely weak and thin. This condition results in dry and wrinkled skin in infants. A huge decline in the growth rate is observed. Body weight is also seen to decline considerably in such children.