Emaciation is defined as the state of extreme thinness from absence of body fat and muscle wasting usually resulting from malnutrition.[1] It is often seen as the opposite of obesity.
Characteristics
Emaciation manifests physically as thin limbs, pronounced and protruding bones, sunken eyes, dry skin, thinning hair, a bloated stomach, and a dry or coated tongue in humans. Emaciation is often accompanied by halitosis, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, anemia, improper function of lymph and the lymphatic system, and pleurisy and edema.[2]
Causes
Buchenwald inmates, 16 April 1945, when the camp was liberated
Illustration of an emaciated horse, by Chinese artist Gong Kai
A lack of resources in the habitat, disease, or neglect and cruelty from humans in captivity can result in emaciation in animals. In the rehabilitation of emaciated animals, the specific dietary needs of each animal have to be considered to avoid causing harm.[3][4]
