Kwashiorkor is a Six-year-old, Presenting as Acrodermatitis Enteropathica

Abstract

Background: Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is commonly seen in developing countries, especially in infants and young children up to 5 years of age. Edema is one of the characteristic features which occurs due to excessive protein loss or decreased protein intake. It is one of the rising concerns of parents and leads to mortality if untreated. Case Presentation: A 6-year-old male child was brought with complaints of excessive skin lesions and loss of appetite for four months. He sustained burns on his legs four months back, and his general condition worsened at home.  Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is common among children 6-59 months. The age of presentation in our patients is unusual.  We stepped up his nutritive intake, added micronutrients and trace elements, and he recovered with our efforts. Conclusion: We recognized the child’s underlying condition well and started the apt treatment. The child responded well to the nutritional intervention and showed signs of recovery. The age of presentation was rare, which has made us report the case. The parents were counseled well to step up the child’s protein and calorie intake and ensure a tender and stress-free environment at home, enhancing the child’s recovery.