American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Marasmus is primarily characterized by which of the following?

1. Edema

2. Severe muscle wasting

3. Normal body weight

4. Caloric surplus

The correct answer is: Severe muscle wasting

Marasmus is primarily characterized by severe muscle wasting due to a significant deficiency in caloric intake over an extended period. It is a form of protein-energy malnutrition often seen in children and can arise from inadequate food intake, particularly in the context of poverty or illness. In marasmus, both fat and muscle stores are depleted, leading to noticeable loss of body mass and a very emaciated appearance. The condition does not typically have associated edema, which differentiates it from another malnutrition condition known as kwashiorkor. Normal body weight and caloric surplus are not characteristics of marasmus; rather, it is defined by its extreme lack of calories and resultant muscle wasting. Understanding these aspects of marasmus is critical for identifying and managing malnutrition.