How is kwashiorkor treated?
The child with kwashiorkor should be admitted to hospital for the initial treatment. Unfortunately, this will be impossible in many developing countries where the disease is most prevalent. Treatment will depend on the severity of the condition. Shock, dehydration and infection will be managed first. The child is started on milk feeds. The energy content is increased slowly over a week or so before solids are introduced. Milk only is given for the first five to seven days. An acidified formula is currently favoured. 80 kcals/kg/day are given for the first three days; 100 kcals/kg/day the next three days and then 150-200 kcals/kg/day thereafter. The energy content of feeds can be increased by the addition of sunflower seed oil (5 ml/100 ml milk) or glucose polymer (max 10 ml/100 ml). Solids (e.g. cereals, mince) are introduced from about day six. In general, the more severe the condition the slower the feeds are increased. Some children may develop lactose intolerance. This is the inabi
