Skin Signs as the Presenting Manifestation of Severe Nutritional Deficiency

May 2004 in “ Archives of Dermatology ”

John T. Kuhl

thinning scalp hair hair loss nutritional deficiency itching skin eruption

TLDR Severe nutritional deficiency can cause serious health and development issues, including skin problems and hair loss.

A 17-month-old girl presented with symptoms of severe nutritional deficiency, including an itching skin eruption, thinning scalp hair with significant hair loss, swelling of extremities, and lack of weight gain. Her growth rate had slowed over the past year, and she had regressed in her ability to walk, becoming unsteady on her feet. These symptoms highlighted the impact of nutritional deficiency on her overall health and development.

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