Hair root morphology examination for the field assessment of protein energy malnutrition
Satoto; Fatimah, S.; Harjoko, W.; Harijono, R.; Trastotenojo, M.S.
Paediatrica Indonesiana 19(7-8): 177-186
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0030-9311 PMID: 117418 Document Number: 152676
The changes in hair root morphology were studied for their usefulness in the field assessment of protein-energy-malnutrition (PEM) for Indonesian children. Four hair root characteristics were measured: percentage of anagen (the growing phase), percentage of telogen (the resting phase), percentage of atrophy and bulb diameter. Significant differences in bulb diameter, percentage of atrophy, anagen and telogen were found between well-nourished and malnourished children at any degrees by using weight-for-age. Significant correlations were obtained between bulb diameter and percentage of atrophy and midarm circumference, and between percentage of atrophy and weight-of-height. The method was time-consuming although it can differentiate between well-nourished and mild-moderate malnourished children. It is not recommended for use in the field assessment of PEM.