marasmus
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məs1650–60; < Neo-Latin < Greek marasmós a wasting away, akin to maraínein to weaken, waste away
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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marasmus (məˈræzməs) ![[Click for IPA pronunciation guide]](http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/g/d/dictionary_questionbutton_default.gif) | |
| —n | |
| pathol general emaciation and wasting, esp of infants, thought to be associated with severe malnutrition or impaired utilization of nutrients | |
| [C17: from New Latin, from Greek marasmos, from marainein to waste] | |
| ma'rasmic | |
| —adj | |
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| a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc. |
| the offspring of a zebra and a donkey. |
marasmus
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marasmus ma·ras·mus (mə-rāz'məs)
n.
Chronic wasting of body tissues, especially in young children, commonly due to prolonged dietary deficiency of protein and calories. Also called athrepsia.
ma·ras'mic adj.
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marasmus
a form of protein-energy malnutrition occurring chiefly among very young children in developing countries, particularly under famine conditions, in which a mother's milk supply is greatly reduced. Marasmus results from the inadequate intake of both protein and calories; persons with a similar type of protein-energy malnutrition, kwashiorkor, do not obtain enough protein but still consume a moderate number of calories. Marasmus is characterized by growth retardation (in weight more than in height) and progressive wasting of subcutaneous fat and muscle. Other symptoms may include diarrhea; dehydration; behavioral changes; dry, loose skin; and dry, brittle hair. Marasmus can be treated with a high-calorie, protein-rich diet. Severe, prolonged marasmus may result in permanent mental retardation and impaired growth.
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