The effect of refeeding on pancreatic exocrine function in marasmic infants

Volume, pH, bicarbonate, amylase, and lipase of duodenal contents were measured under baseline conditions and after stimulation with pancreozymin in marasmie children both before and after 30 days of intensive rehabilitation. There were no differences in secretory rate, pH, or bicarbonate output from those of control values. Base-line enzymatic activity, especially lipase activity, was markedly reduced in marasmic children both before and after therapy, as was the response to pancreozymin. Thus exocrine function of the pancreas is affected during marasmus, and recovery does not occur even after 30 days of intensive therapy.