Cutaneous manifestations of kwashiorkor: a case report of an adult man after abdominal surgery

An Bras Dermatol. 2011 Nov-Dec;86(6):1174-7. doi: 10.1590/s0365-05962011000600017.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

Kwashiorkor is a type of protein-energy malnutrition where diet protein deficit is found, in spite of appropriate caloric intake. Cutaneous manifestations include xerosis, with abnormally dry skin that has a flaking enamel paint aspect, a typical red to gray-white hair color, the "flag sign" and more evident edema in lower limbs and face, giving it a full moon appearance. This article reports a case of a male adult patient who had undergone Whipple surgery for treatment of chronic pancreatitis associated with pseudotumor of the pancreatic head that progressed to cutaneous manifestations of kwashiorkor after pulmonary tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Hair Diseases / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Kwashiorkor / diagnosis*
  • Kwashiorkor / etiology
  • Male
  • Pancreaticoduodenectomy / adverse effects*
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic / etiology*
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic / surgery
  • Pigmentation Disorders / diagnosis
  • Skin Diseases / etiology*
  • Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / etiology*