American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 25, 720-729, Copyright © 1972 by The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Inc.

A rapid tissue technique for the field assesssment of protein-calorie malnutrition

¹ From the Cooperative Extension Service, University of California, Berkeley, California

A tissue test is proposed for the field assessment of the incidence and severity of protein-calorie malnutrition. Morphological changes in hair roots are described, classified, and standards suggested. This screening test is particularly applicable to rural tropical areas where high environmental temperatures and humidity and irregular electrical power may preclude the use of more commonly used techniques. The results of the applications of this technique are discussed in connection with clinical cases of classical kwashiorkor and marasmus, in the field assessment of PCM under tropical conditions, and in controlled studies of experimental protein deprivation in the metabolic ward.

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				P. Tanphaichitr, S. Chatasingh, S. Dhanamitta, and K. Tontisirin Differences in Hair Roots among Children with Differing Nutritional Status and of Different Ethnic Origins: Clinical Investigators Should First Establish Their Own Normal Standards for Each Ethnic Group Being Studied Clinical Pediatrics, July 1, 1977; 16(7): 599 - 600. [PDF]