Severe Post-Bariatric Kwashiorkor Syndrome: A Case Report

    March 2025 in “ Journal of Medical Research and Surgery ”
    Mirla Mirtes Mastub de Paula, Débora Cristina Bartz Siminatto, Jerdal Micael Quilla Morsoletto, Ian Caldeira Ruppen, Fernando de Oliveira Dutra, Fernando De Oliveira Dutra Filho, Lara Beatriz Dallaqua Bitiati, Tauane Cano Barreto, Luhara Sechi Lorga Vieira, Karolina Bogusch Cava, Maria Eduarda Lopes Biadola, Poliana Zara Carvalho, Rafaela Witte, Larissa da Rosa Piccoli, Victoria Signori, Maria Luísa Mestriner Buzzo, Kindy Juliana Araújo Farias, Kelly Roberta Araújo Farias
    TLDR Proper diet, monitoring, and protein supplements are crucial after bariatric surgery to prevent severe malnutrition.
    This case report discusses a 43-year-old woman who developed severe protein-energy malnutrition, known as Kwashiorkor syndrome, after bariatric surgery. Symptoms included edema, skin changes, alopecia, and muscle weakness, confirmed by hypoalbuminemia. Treatment involved electrolyte support, parenteral nutrition, and nutritional deficiency correction, leading to clinical improvement through a multidisciplinary approach. The report highlights the importance of dietary education, strict postoperative monitoring, and protein supplementation to prevent such complications. It also suggests that gut microbiota may play a role in Kwashiorkor pathophysiology, with probiotics potentially offering benefits. Early surveillance in bariatric patients is crucial to prevent severe nutritional issues and improve outcomes.
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