Question

Why hands and feet get swollen with accumulated fluid (oedema) in persons suffering from deficiency of proteins in kwashiorkar?

• A. Plasma proteins serve as a source of proteins for tissue cells
• B. Albumin and globulins retain water in the blood plasma by their osmotic effects
• C. Albumin and globulins transport many substances such as thyroxinbe and $Fe3+$ in combination with them.
• D. Tissue cells utilise plasma proteins for forming their cellular proteins.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Albumin and globulins retain water in the blood plasma by their osmotic effects

In kwashiorkor, there is a decrease in the human serum albumin levels. This decrease leads to a deficiency in the protein levels of an individual. This causes accumulation of fluids in the tissue which further causes swelling. This swelling is most common in the abdominal region. The swelling can mainly be attributed to the retention of water in the blood plasma by the osmotic pressure created because of the decreased number of albumins and globulins.

So, the correct answer is 'Albumin and globulins retain water in the blood plasma by their osmotic effects'.