Severe protein energy malnutrition in the infant caused by maternal hypogalactia: case report

Abstract

Objective: describe a case of severe protein energy malnutrition in the infant caused by
maternal hypogalactia. Case description: infants referred by a Basic Health Unit (UBS)
for significant weight loss detected in a routine visit, to investigate the cause of malnutrition.
A number of tests were performed, the results of which were within normal limits, and it
was concluded that maternal hypogalactia was the causative agent. The child was hospi
talized receiving dietary supplementation with milk formula presenting a rapid recovery
of weight. Discussion: severe malnutrition represents a serious public health problem.
Community-based care has a low intervention cost and may be a strategy more in keeping
with the reality of developing countries