A neuropathy in children recovering from malnutrition (Kwashiorkor)

Abstract

In two previous publications attention was drawn to an uncommon neurological syndrome observed in 16 children who were recovering from malnutrition (Kahn, 1954; Kahn and Falcke, 1956). The clinical features of the syndrome can be summarised as follows: Coarse tremors, resembling those of Parkinsonism, commence some days or weeks after the faulty diet of a malnourished child has been changed to one consisting mainly or entirely of milk. These tremors affect the extremities, the head, the tongue and sometimes even the abdominal muscles. In some cases the tremors are seen only on one side of the body, while in other instances they may affect the arms only. So far, no case has been observed where tremors have been noted in the legs, but not in the arms. The tremors cease during voluntary movements and during deep sleep. They are often present during light sleep.