PEM Full Form
What is the full form of PEM?
The full form of PEM is the"protein energy malnutrition." It is a condition caused by a deficiency of protein and certain micronutrients and micronutrients.Macronutrients include carbohydrates. Proteins and fats and micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, are deficient due to ineffective assimilation of nutrients. It is graded as mild, moderate, or severe based on its symptoms and manifestations in the body. It is now commonly known as Protein Energy Undernutrition (PEU) or Protein Calorie Undernutrition (PCU). These types of diseases are common among children in developing and underdeveloped countries around the world. It occurs when protein uptake does not satisfy the body's nutritional requirements.
Classification of PEM
Primary Protein Energy Malnutrition: Proteins are major biomolecules, also called the "building blocks," of our body. They are mainly seen in children and are caused by depression related to child and elder abuse.
1. Kwashiorkor
It is caused by a protein deficiency caused by inadequate breastfeeding or a low-protein diet.
It is also called edematous malnutrition.
Fluid retention is caused by an electrolyte imbalance. Foot, stomach, and ankle edoema
Due to a diet that contains more carbohydrates and less protein.
It can also be caused by acute gastroenteritis.
Immunity is reduced.
2. Marasmus
Severe protein deficiency caused by changes in fat metabolism.
The primary symptom is being underweight.Symptoms of marasmus can occur due to deficiency, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance,
Infections are caused if marasmus remains untreated for a long time.
Secondary protein-energy malnutrition
These include disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
caused by a deficiency of hormones
Decreased appetite.
Major Symptoms of Protein Energy Metabolism
muscle weakness and loss of strength
Physical changes in hair and skin: weight loss, inelastic tissue, and dry skin
Temporary lactose intolerance
Heart and kidney failure
Fractures and bone misformation are both possible outcomes.
Diagnosis of Protein Energy Malnutrition
BMI (body mass index) calculation
Analysis of Fat Metabolism
Levels of hormones, enzymes, cholesterol, etc.
Measuring serum albumin levels
Testing the total blood count
Treatment of Protein Energy Malnutrition
Balanced Diet
Hydration
Food supplements: vitamin B12, magnesium
Avoidance of lactose
Supportive Care
antibiotic treatment for infection
Replenishing essential nutrients
Complications of Protein Deficiency Malnutrition
Infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, and others.
Delayed wound healing
Retardation in Growth
Micronutrients deficiency
Organ Failure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Protein energy malnutrition (PEM), protein calorie malnutrition.
Kwashiorkor and Marasmus are examples of primary protein-energy malnutrition.
The main symptom of protein-energy malnutrition, such as Kwashiorkor, is edema.
PEM can be avoided by consuming adequate amounts of nutrients in the diet or by eating a well-balanced diet.
PEM is a serious condition where micro- and macronutrients like protein, carbohydrates, etc. are required for normal body functions. Protein is the fundamental building block of our bodies.