Protein energy malnutrition laboratory tests
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Omodamola Aje B.Sc, M.D. [2]
Overview
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of protein energy malnutrition include abnormally low blood glucose, hypoalbuminemia (10-25 g/L), hypoproteinemia (transferrin, essential amino acids, lipoprotein)and hypoglycemia.
Laboratory findings
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of protein energy malnutrition include:
- Abnormally low blood glucose
- Abnormal blood smears by microscopy or direct detection testing
- Decreased serum hemoglobin
- Abnormal urinalysis and culture
Specific laboratory findings in patients with kwashiorkor include:
- Hypoalbuminemia (10-25 g/L)
- Hypoproteinemia (transferrin, essential amino acids, lipoprotein)
- Hypoglycemia
- Elevated plasma cortisol and growth hormone levels
- Decreased insulin secretion and insulin-like growth factor
- Increased percentage of body water and extracellular water
- Depletion of electrolytes, especially potassium and magnesium
- Decreased levels of some enzymes (including lactase)
- Iron deficiency anemia and metabolic acidosis
Specific laboratory findings in patients with marasmus include:
- Increased urinary 3-methylhistidine, a reflection of muscle breakdown
- Urinary excretion of hydroxyproline is diminished, reflecting impaired growth and wound healing
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Metabolic acidosis