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Cranial MRI findings in children with protein energy malnutrition

Dursun Odabaş1, Hüseyin Caksen, Sakir Sar

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Yüzüncü Yil University, Van, Turkey.

The International Journal of Neuroscience
|July 16, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Most children with moderate to severe protein energy malnutrition (PEM) show abnormal brain MRI results, primarily cerebral atrophy. Early evaluation for these cerebral abnormalities is recommended for children with PEM.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Nutritional Neuroscience
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant global health issue in children.
  • Cerebral abnormalities can occur in children with malnutrition, impacting neurodevelopment.
  • Cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a key tool for visualizing brain structure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate cranial MRI findings in children with moderate and severe protein energy malnutrition (PEM).
  • To determine the prevalence and nature of cerebral abnormalities associated with childhood malnutrition.

Main Methods:

  • Cranial MRI scans were performed on 20 children aged 3–36 months with moderate or severe PEM.
  • MRI findings were analyzed for abnormalities such as cerebral atrophy and ventricular dilatation.
  • Results were compared based on malnutrition severity, head circumference, iron deficiency anemia, and serum albumin levels.

Main Results:

  • 75% of children (15 out of 20) exhibited abnormal cranial MRI findings.
  • All abnormal scans showed cerebral atrophy; 75% also had ventricular dilatation.
  • No statistically significant differences in MRI findings were observed based on malnutrition degree or other clinical factors.

Conclusions:

  • The majority of children with moderate/severe PEM present with abnormal cerebral MRI findings.
  • Cerebral atrophy is a common finding in children with PEM.
  • Routine evaluation for cerebral atrophy is suggested for children diagnosed with PEM.

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