Nutrition and infectious diseases in developing countries and problems of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Infectious diseases are the major causes of death and morbidity in underdeveloped countries, particularly in children. Increasing evidence suggests that malnutrition-both Protein-Energy type Malnutrition (PEM) and essential micronutrient (vitamins, trace minerals, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids) type-is the underlying reason for increased susceptibility to infections. On the other hand, certain infectious diseases also cause malnutrition, which results in a vicious cycle. Before its viral origin was known, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) had been termed the thin disease because cachexia was AIDS' main clinical manifestation. The relationship between infection and malnutrition is well documented in the literature. Our experience supports this. Preventive and therapeutic measures are suggested.