## **Core Concept**
The Gomez classification is a method used to categorize undernutrition based on the percentage of actual body weight to the expected body weight for age. This classification helps in identifying the severity of malnutrition in children.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Gomez classification categorizes malnutrition as follows:
- Normal: 90-110% of expected weight for age
- Mild (Grade 1) malnutrition: 75-89% of expected weight for age
- Moderate (Grade 2) malnutrition: 60-74% of expected weight for age
- Severe (Grade 3) malnutrition: Below 60% of expected weight for age

Therefore, severe malnutrition corresponds to a median weight for age of less than 60%.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** More than 90% corresponds to normal nutritional status, not severe malnutrition.
- **Option B:** 71-80% would fall into the mild malnutrition category, not severe.
- **Option D:** While closer, 60-70% would be considered moderate malnutrition.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the Gomez classification is one of the earliest and simplest methods to assess malnutrition, emphasizing the importance of weight for age in pediatric populations. Severe malnutrition is a critical condition that requires immediate intervention.

## **Correct Answer:** . <60%