Alterations In Cellular Processes
An 83-year-old resident of a skilled nursing facility presents to the emergency department with generalized edema of extremities and abdomen. History obtained from staff reveals the patient has history of malabsorption syndrome and difficulty eating due to lack of dentures. The patient has been diagnosed with protein malnutrition.
For this Discussion, you will examine the above case study and explain the disease that is suggested. You examine the symptoms reported and explain the cells that are involved and potential alterations and impacts.
To prepare:
Post an explanation of the disease highlighted in the scenario you were provided. Include the following in your explanation:
The role genetics plays in the disease.
Why the patient is presenting with the specific symptoms described.
The physiologic response to the stimulus presented in the scenario and why you think this response occurred.
The cells that are involved in this process.
How another characteristic (e.g., gender, genetics) would change your response.
Protein malnutrition is a condition caused by a lack of dietary protein which can lead to serious health complications. While genetics usually do not play a major role in the development of this disorder, there are some genetic components that may contribute to its severity. For example, certain gene variants such as GALT and PMM2 have been linked with an increased risk for developing protein deficiency (Soumare et al., 2019). Additionally, it is important to note that individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds may be more prone to malnourishment due to their genetic makeup or predisposition towards certain diseases (Hoffman et al., 2010).
However, even though genetics may play a small part in the development of protein malnutrition, environmental factors tend to be the primary cause. This includes physical illness and injury as well as poor diets or lifestyles that don’t provide enough essential nutrients (Kumar et al., 2014). In addition low-income households often lack access nutritious foods due limited financial resources which can further worsen this affliction.
Overall while genetics do not necessarily determine whether an individual will develop protein deficiency or not, they can still have an effect on the outcome. It is important for healthcare professionals and policymakers alike to be aware of these potential risks so preventative measures can be taken accordingly.
