Early identification and treatment necessary to prevent malnutrition in children and adolescents with severe disabilities

Children with severe developmental disabilities frequently have nutrition and growth problems that range from moderate to severe. Because of notable continuing medical concerns and lowered growth expectations, parents and physicians may fail to recognize gradual deterioration in nutritional status before severe medical complications occur. The two cases reported in this article illustrate the need for early identification and treatment to prevent the development of notable morbidity secondary to malnutrition. Children and adolescents who have growth parameters consistently below age norms require assessment and monitoring by a registered dietitian to detect feeding problems and intake changes and to provide early intervention to help prevent negative consequences (eg, dehydration, protein-energy malnutrition, decubitus ulcers, increased rate and duration of infections, and altered bowel motility). An initial assessment should consist of measurement of length or height, weight, triceps, and subscapular skinfolds; dietary and feeding history and a review of medical history; and biochemical testing as indicated by the medical and dietary histories. Monitoring frequency, which is determined by age, severity of condition, and response to treatment, may vary from weekly to bimonthly.