protein-energy malnutrition kwashiorkor A protein-energy malnutrition that is characterized by severe lack of protein and edema or anasarca, has_symptom swelling, gastrointestinal upset, dehydration, thin dry skin, and cough, and has_material_basis_in severe deficit of protein, resulting in lack of albumin causing decreased oncotic pressure in the vasculature and increased activation of the renin-angiotensin axis and antidiuretic hormone. Kwashiorkor