Rice nightmare: Kwashiorkor in 2 Philadelphia-area infants fed Rice Dream beverage.
A 14-month-old girl and a 7-month-old boy each presented with a diffuse dermatitis, whole body edema, and hypoalbuminemia. The diets of both infants consisted almost entirely of Rice Dream, a rice-based, protein-poor beverage. Both infants were diagnosed with kwashiorkor, which resolved with protein supplementation. Clues from the physical examination, a diet history, appropriate laboratory examinations, and an index of suspicion are crucial in promptly diagnosing and treating infants with kwashiorkor. Manufacturers of rice beverages should appropriately warn parents about the dangers of using their products as infant nourishment.
Katz
Kenneth A
KA
Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA. Kenneth.katz@uphs.upenn.edu
Mahlberg
Matthew J
MJ
Mahlberg
Matthew H
MH
Honig
Paul J
PJ
Yan
Albert C
AC
D003872:Dermatitis / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D004044:Dietary Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D041943:Infant Formula; D007228:Infant Nutrition Disorders / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D007732:Kwashiorkor / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D012275:Oryza; D015143:Philadelphia
D004044:Dietary Proteins