Kwashiorkor and ariboflavinosis

Kwashiorkor is a complex deficiency state in every aspect of which ariboflavinosis is an outstanding feature. 2. The epithelial lesions of kwashiorkor include those of the adult syndrome of ariboflavinosis. 3. The fatty liver and pre-terminal coma of kwashiorkor are characteristic features of experimental riboflavin deficiency in dogs. 4. Signs of ariboflavinosis are seen in 16 per cent. of the adults in the social class from which most cases of kwashiorkor derive. 5. The aetiology of kwashiorkor is complicated by intercurrent disease and the anorexia and inanition which is part of its make-up lead to secondary deficiencies. 6. The complicated and refractory nature of the late stages emphasize the necessity for prevention. The identification of ariboflavinosis at every stage in the aetiology and pathogenesis should bring kwashiorkor within reach of practical prevention by means of food yeast.