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Protein-Calorie Malnutrition
Protein-calorie malnutrition occurs when insufficient calories and protein lead to unintended weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, and delayed wound healing. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston offers personalized evaluations, dietary guidance, medical treatments, and therapies to restore health, strength.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Protein-Calorie Malnutrition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History & Physical Exam
He reviews your dietary habits, recent unintentional weight loss, appetite changes, fatigue, and any underlying medical conditions that may impact nutrition. He records BMI, inspects for muscle wasting, checks for swelling or fluid retention, and evaluates your physical strength and appearance.
Laboratory Assessment
Nutrition panel: serum albumin, prealbumin, and total protein to assess protein stores
Micronutrient testing: vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, and iron studies to identify deficiencies
Complete blood count (CBC) and metabolic panel for anemia, electrolyte imbalances, or organ function
C-reactive protein (CRP) to identify inflammation that may affect nutritional markers
Dietary and Functional Assessment
24-hour dietary recall or food frequency questionnaire to evaluate nutrient intake
Assessment of swallowing difficulties, food intolerance, or medication side effects
Grip strength testing or physical performance measures to assess functional status
Imaging Studies (if needed)
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate liver, pancreas, or bowel health in cases of suspected malabsorption
DXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) to evaluate lean body mass in severe or chronic cases
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Dr. Scott works closely with registered dietitians and primary care providers to develop a customized refeeding and nutritional support plan, tailored to the patient's needs, risk factors, and goals for recovery.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for protein-calorie malnutrition.
1. Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes
Personalized meal plans to boost protein intake with lean meats, eggs, yogurt, beans or tofu
Calorie-dense additions like peanut butter, smoothies and shakes
Smaller, more frequent meals for those who feel full quickly
Ongoing guidance from a registered dietitian at GastroDoxs
Convenient locations serving Houston neighborhoods such as the Galleria and the Heights
2. Medications
Appetite stimulants to help increase hunger
Enzyme replacement therapy to improve digestion
Targeted vitamin and mineral supplements (e.g., B12, D, iron) to correct deficiencies
3. Advanced Nutrition Support
Long-term enteral feeding (feeding tube) when oral intake is insufficient
Parenteral (IV) nutrition for cases where the gut cannot absorb nutrients
Close monitoring and adjustment by Dr. Scott and the GastroDoxs care team
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for protein-calorie malnutrition?
The primary code is E46 for unspecified protein-energy malnutrition. More specific codes range from E40 to E46, depending on severity and type.
How is protein-calorie malnutrition diagnosed?
Dr. Scott evaluates your history, measures BMI and muscle strength, and orders blood tests for albumin and prealbumin. Imaging or endoscopy may be used if digestive issues are suspected.
What foods help treat protein-calorie malnutrition?
High-protein choices like lean meats, eggs, dairy, beans, and tofu are key. Calorie-dense options such as nut butters, smoothies, and meal replacement shakes also support weight gain.
Do I need supplements or feeding tubes?
Many patients start with oral supplements and appetite stimulants. If oral intake isn't enough, Dr. Scott may recommend a feeding tube or IV nutrition for short- or long-term support.
How long does recovery usually take?
Most people notice improvement in four to six weeks, but recovery time depends on the underlying cause and severity of malnutrition.
Can children be treated for this condition?
Yes. Dr. Scott's team works with pediatric specialists to tailor nutrition plans and medical therapies for young patients.
