Cortisol and growth hormone in kwashiorkor and marasmus.

Cortisol and growth hormone concentrations in the plasma were determined in 26 children with kwashiorkor, 13 with marasmus, and 21 controls. Cortisol levels were high in babies with kwashiorkor and marasmus, but higher in the former, in relation to a constant body mass. The concentration of plasma cortisol correlated positively with the body mass deficit in kwashiorkor (r = 0,66) and in children with low mass for age (r = 0,75). Growth hormone levels were elevated in both kwashiorkor and marasmus. The proposed role of these hormones in metabolic adaptation to malnutrition is discussed.