Kwashiorkor, a form of malnutrition, is caused by the deficiency of

Kwashiorkor is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) primarily caused by a severe deficiency of dietary protein [1]. It typically affects children in developing regions who consume a diet that may provide adequate calories (often from starchy carbohydrates like rice or cassava) but lacks essential protein-rich foods [1]. This deficiency leads to metabolic disturbances, including decreased synthesis of visceral proteins and hypoalbuminemia. A hallmark clinical symptom that distinguishes kwashiorkor from marasmus is the presence of edema (swelling), often accompanied by a fatty liver, skin changes, and thin hair [1]. While marasmus results from a total calorie and protein deficiency leading to extreme wasting, kwashiorkor is specifically linked to the lack of protein intake despite near-adequate energy consumption.

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1. [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559224/