All of the following conditions are observed in Marasmus, except –
**Core Concept**
Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by a significant loss of body fat and muscle mass, leading to a decrease in body weight and overall health. It is often caused by a lack of sufficient calories and essential nutrients, particularly in children. The condition is associated with a range of physiological and biochemical abnormalities.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Marasmus is characterized by a loss of body fat and muscle mass, leading to a decrease in body weight and overall health. This condition is often caused by a lack of sufficient calories and essential nutrients, particularly in children. The pathophysiology of marasmus involves a decrease in muscle protein synthesis and an increase in muscle protein breakdown, leading to muscle wasting. Additionally, marasmus is associated with a range of biochemical abnormalities, including hypoglycemia, hypokalemia, and edema.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because marasmus is not typically associated with an increase in body weight. In fact, one of the hallmark features of marasmus is a significant loss of body weight.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because marasmus is associated with a range of physiological and biochemical abnormalities, including hypoglycemia, hypokalemia, and edema. These abnormalities are a direct result of the body's inability to obtain sufficient calories and essential nutrients.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because marasmus is not typically associated with an increase in body fat. In fact, one of the hallmark features of marasmus is a significant loss of body fat.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
One key clinical feature of marasmus is the presence of a "thin, emaciated" appearance, often described as a "skeletal" appearance. This is due to the significant loss of body fat and muscle mass that occurs in the condition.
**Correct Answer:** C.