Biochemical and haematological aspects of anaemia associating protein energy malnutrition (PEM).

Haematological as well as biochemical parameters assessing anaemia associating protein energy malnutrition PEM were estimated. Data revealed that controls studied have a relatively lower Hb, Ht, and R.B.C.S. count than European standards. Hypochromic anaemia was predominant in 83.3% of moderate Kwashiorkor being normocytic in 50% and microcytic in 33.3%. In severe KWO anaemia was normocytic in 42% and microcytic in 19.2%. Normochromia was found in 9.7% and hypochromia in 29%. Macrocytosis was found in 38.8% in severe KWO. In marasmus, normocytic anaemia was revealed in 74% of the 2nd. grade being normochromic in 82% and hypochromic in 40%. Macrocytic anaemia was detected in 26%. In 3rd. grade subjects normocytic normochromic anaemia occurred in 70% of the cases. Macrocytosis was encountered among 30% of the cases. Serum iron and transferrin level dropped in both KWO and marasmus, the extent of decrease was greater in the former. The percent transferrin saturation was elevated in severe cases. Particularly severe KWO and marasmic KWO.