Plasma and red cell iron turnover in protein calorie malnutrition

Abstract

Turnover studies with 59 Fe were performed in kwashiorkor and marasmus. An iron deficiency anaemia was present in all infants investigated. In kwashiorkor a diminished erythropoietic activity of the bone-marrow caused by protein depletion was demonstrated. Effective erythro-poiesis, however, was normal in marasmus. In a marasmic infant with megaloblastic reaction the bone-marrow uptake curve showed an incomplete release. In kwashiorkor and marasmus the red cell survival was shorter than normal. Blood and plasma volume in the two disorders were more increased than in normal controls.