Question

What is the primary cause of the edema that accompanies kwashiorkor?​

a. ​deterioration of the digestive tract lining.
b. ​synthesis of enzymes is reduced.
c. ​albumin concentrations fall and fluid leaks into interstitial spaces.
d. ​lipoprotein synthesis is diminished, causing fat to accumulate.
e. ​protein is lost from the heart muscle, resulting in a weak heartbeat?

Answer 1

The answer is C. Albumin concentrations fall and fluid leaks into interstitial spaces. Low albumin means low protein concentration and protein is needed to pull the fluid back to osmosis, if there is not enough protein, then it will result to fluid pooling. This pool of fluid is what causes the swelling and distends the abdomen.