Tag: Facial wasting

Kwashiorkor, not marasmus, is the form of severe protein-energy malnutrition characterized by 'moon face,' or facial swelling due to edema. This distinction is critical for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the underlying nutritional deficiencies are fundamentally different.

According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition is a significant public health challenge affecting millions worldwide, with visible symptoms often manifesting on the face. Recognizing what face changes are associated with malnutrition is crucial for early detection and intervention, as these can signal underlying deficiencies ranging from protein-energy malnutrition to specific vitamin and mineral deficits.

The World Health Organization has highlighted facial symptoms as key early indicators of nutritional deficiencies. So, what is a malnourished face and what do these telltale signs reveal about your overall health?