American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABS QE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Start your journey to becoming a certified surgeon and tackle your exam with confidence!

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What is the caloric status of an infant suffering from Marasmus?

Surplus
Deficient
Normal
Excessive

The correct answer is: Deficient

An infant suffering from Marasmus is characterized by a state of caloric deficiency. Marasmus is a form of severe malnutrition that occurs due to a significant lack of calories and protein in the diet. This condition is often seen in infants and young children who do not receive adequate nutrition over an extended period, leading to weight loss, muscle wasting, and a marked decrease in energy reserves. The body starts to utilize its fat and muscle stores for energy, thus highlighting the extreme caloric deficit. In contrast to normal caloric status, where the energy intake meets the body's needs, or surplus and excessive conditions where there is an excess of calories, Marasmus reflects a situation where the available energy is insufficient to support growth and daily functioning. This clear inadequacy in caloric intake underscores the diagnosis, making it essential to address the nutritional deficits to restore health and promote recovery.