Assessment of nutritional status in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

Abstract

A detailed nutritional assessment was carried out on thirteen patients with the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Estimates of body fat and skeletal muscle were measured using triceps-skinfold, mid-arm circumference, mid-arm muscle area, and creatinine height index. Body weight was compared to standards for height and sex. Serum albumin and transferrin levels were measured to estimate visceral protein stores. The average Kilocalorie and protein intake was assessed from four day records and compared to estimated Kilocalorie and protein needs.

The findings of this assessment showed decreased skeletal and visceral protein stores that can be characterized as a mixed type of malnutrition, or marasmic-kwashiokor. Protein intake was also shown to be inadequate when compared to estimated protein needs for stress and/or infection. This could contribute to diminished protein stores and muscle wasting.