Examine the case study below and explain the disease that is suggested. Examine the symptoms reported and explain the cells that are involved and potential alterations and impacts. “An 83-year-old resident of a skilled nursing facility presents to the emergency department with generalized edema of extremities and abdomen. History obtained from staff reveals the patient has history of malabsorption syndrome and difficulty eating due to lack of dentures. The patient has been diagnosed with protein malnutrition.”

Introduction

In this case study, an 83-year-old resident of a skilled nursing facility presents with generalized edema of extremities and abdomen. The patient has a history of malabsorption syndrome, difficulty eating due to lack of dentures, and has been diagnosed with protein malnutrition. Based on these findings, various diseases could be suggested. This essay will examine the symptoms reported in the case study and explain the potential disease that might be involved. Additionally, it will explore the cells involved and potential alterations and impacts associated with the disease.

Disease Suggested

The symptoms of generalized edema, malabsorption syndrome, difficulty eating, and protein malnutrition in an elderly individual point towards a potential diagnosis of Kwashiorkor. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition caused by protein deficiency in the diet. It commonly occurs in regions where there is limited access to quality protein sources.

Kwashiorkor primarily affects children, but it can also occur in adults, especially those with existing health conditions or dietary restrictions. The case study mentions the patient’s history of malabsorption syndrome and difficulty eating due to lack of dentures, both of which could have contributed to the protein deficiency and subsequent development of Kwashiorkor.

Symptoms and Cells Involved

Generalized edema, the primary symptom observed in the patient, is a hallmark sign of Kwashiorkor. Edema refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces, leading to swelling of the affected areas. In Kwashiorkor, the edema is due to decreased oncotic pressure caused by hypoalbuminemia. Albumin, a protein synthesized by the liver, helps maintain osmotic balance and prevents fluid from leaking out of blood vessels.

Protein malnutrition in Kwashiorkor leads to a decreased synthesis of albumin, resulting in decreased oncotic pressure and subsequent fluid leakage into the interstitial spaces. This edema is generalized, affecting the extremities and abdomen as mentioned in the case study. The swollen abdomen is often referred to as a “pot belly” appearance, indicative of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity.

The cells primarily involved in Kwashiorkor are the hepatocytes of the liver, where albumin is synthesized. In protein deficiency, the liver does not receive an adequate supply of essential amino acids required for protein synthesis. As a result, the hepatocytes are unable to produce sufficient amounts of albumin. This leads to decreased levels of albumin in the blood and subsequent hypoalbuminemia.

Alterations and Impacts

The alteration in hepatocyte function and decreased albumin synthesis in Kwashiorkor has several impacts on the body. First, the decreased levels of albumin result in decreased oncotic pressure, leading to fluid accumulation in the interstitial spaces and the development of edema. This can cause discomfort, decreased mobility, and impaired wound healing.

Second, the decreased synthesis of albumin affects the transport of various substances in the blood. Albumin plays a crucial role in the transport of hormones, drugs, fatty acids, and other substances. With decreased albumin levels, the transport of these substances is compromised, potentially leading to altered drug metabolism, impaired hormonal regulation, and disrupted lipid metabolism.

Third, protein malnutrition in Kwashiorkor also affects the immune system. Many components of the immune system, including antibodies, cytokines, and immune cells, are protein-based. Protein deficiency can weaken the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and impairing wound healing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the symptoms reported in the case study, including generalized edema, malabsorption syndrome, difficulty eating, and protein malnutrition, suggest a potential diagnosis of Kwashiorkor. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition caused by protein deficiency. The disease primarily affects hepatocytes in the liver, leading to decreased albumin synthesis and subsequent hypoalbuminemia. This alters oncotic pressure, resulting in generalized edema. The impacts of Kwashiorkor include fluid retention, altered substance transport, and weakened immune response.