Intermediate
Technical
IVT
Protein malnutrition
Inadequate protein intake or absorption leading to protein deficiency in bariatric surgery patients.
Full Definition
A serious nutritional complication following bariatric surgery, particularly malabsorptive procedures, characterized by insufficient protein levels resulting in muscle wasting, hair loss, poor wound healing, and immune dysfunction. It can result from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption, or frequent vomiting. Prevention requires careful dietary counseling, protein supplementation, and regular monitoring of albumin, prealbumin, and total protein levels.
In Context
- "Laboratory results indicated protein malnutrition with albumin levels below 3.0 g/dL." — Lab report interpretation
- "The patient developed protein malnutrition due to persistent vomiting and food intolerance." — Complication documentation
Also known as
protein deficiency
protein-energy malnutrition
Contrasted with
adequate protein status
Don't confuse with
vitamin deficiency
caloric malnutrition
kwashiorkor