Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Gastric Emptying Time in Malnourished Infants: The Effect of Type of Meal

Abstract

Protein energy malnutrition constitutes a maJor pediatric problem in most of the developing countries. In Egypt, the syndrome is quite common. It stands as a major threat to infant's health, growth and development (Gabr et al., 1984).

The newer and the more sensitive non invasive method for assessing Gastric Emptying Time includes ultrasound imaging of the antral activity. It is used for liquids and solids, easy to perform, does not require intubation exposure to radiation (Abdel Rahim, 1999).

The study was conducted on 42 infants recruited from the Nutritional rehabilitation clinic Ain Shams University Hospital, 27 of them were suffering from P.E.M.. They were further subdivided according to Wellcome classification into 3 groups:

• The first group included 10 marasmic infants whose ages ranged between 5 and 24 months. • The second group comprised 10 marasmic

Kwashiarkor infants, their ages ranged between 5 and

24 months.