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Neuropediatrics 1986; 17(4): 178-182
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1052524
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials in Severely Malnourished Children with Kwashiorkor

P. R. Bartel1 , E.  Robinson1 , J. M. Conradie2 , J. G. Prinsloo2
  • 1Department of Neurology, H. F. Verwoerd Hospital, Private Bag X169,0001 Pretoria, South Africa
  • 2Department of Pediatrics, Kalafong Hospital, Private Bag X296,0001 Pretoria, South Africa
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Publication History

Publication Date:
19 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) were recorded in a group of 22 children hospitalized for the treatment of severe malnutrition (kwashiorkor). Recordings were repeated after three weeks of treatment. The control group consisted of age- and sex-matched healthy infants. Abnormal BAEP interpeak-latencies (IPLs) were found in 32 % of the kwashiorkor group in the initial recording and in 40 % of this group in the follow-up recording. Abnormalities were evenly distributed between the I-III, III-V and I-V IPLs and in the majority of cases were unilateral. The influence of increasing stimulus rate was investigated. The findings may reflect defects in myelination of auditory brainstem pathways, however, BAEP abnormalities were not related to several indices of growth retardation or to serum albumin and hemoglobin levels.

Key words

Brainstem auditory evoked potentials - Kwashiorkor malnutrition

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