A child with bilateral pitting oedema, adequate weight for age, and fatty liver is diagnosed with kwashiorkor. The pathophysiological basis of oedema in this condition is primarily:
- A Decreased plasma oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminaemia ✓
- B Sodium retention due to hyperaldosteronism
- C Increased capillary hydrostatic pressure
- D Lymphatic obstruction
Correct answer: A. Decreased plasma oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminaemia
Explanation
Oedema in kwashiorkor results primarily from hypoalbuminaemia, which reduces plasma oncotic pressure, causing fluid to shift from the intravascular compartment to the interstitium. Additionally, impaired fatty acid metabolism leads to hepatic steatosis. Kwashiorkor is protein-deficient malnutrition with relatively adequate energy intake, unlike marasmus where both protein and energy are deficient.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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