Marasmus (Protein/Energy Malnutrition)
	The condition of Marasmus is readily identifiable due to several known 
signs.  People 
suffering from  Marasmus are deficient in all nutrients, especially energy and 
protein.  Body 
stores are used, in order to maintain lean body mass, which leads to significant 
weight loss.  An 
increase in insulin is experienced because of a rise of glucose from glucagon; 
skeletal muscle and 
fat stores are the primary source of energy.  Albumin and Transferrin are 
maintained until late 
into the starvation.  A decline in the responsiveness of the defense mechanisms 
is seen, making 
the Pt. more susceptible to infection, illness, and delayed wound healing.
	Our group listed the following items under Marasmus:  weight loss (weight 
is between 
the 5th and 10th percentile according to the Contemporary Nutrition Support 
Practice: A Clinical 
Guide), TSF 5 mm (reflects subcutaneous fat and is in between the 5th and 10th 
percentile 
according to Contemporary Nutrition Support Practice: A Clinical Guide), UAMA 38 
cm 
(muscle wasting; below the 5th percentile according to Contemporary Nutrition 
Support 
Practice: A Clinical Guide), high glucose (increase in insulin), low protein 
stores (low dietary 
intake of PRO), low albumin (shows late stage of starvation), low WBC (decline 
to defense 
mechanisms), and low transferrin (another sign of advanced starvation).