Proteiininmenetys

Proteiininmenetys, known in English as protein loss, refers to a condition where the body loses protein faster than it can synthesize it, leading to a net decrease in total body protein. This can occur due to various physiological and pathological reasons.

One primary cause is insufficient protein intake, where the diet lacks adequate amounts of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. This is more common in situations of malnutrition or severe caloric restriction. Another significant factor is increased protein breakdown, which can be triggered by illness, injury, or surgery. During such stressful events, the body mobilizes protein reserves for energy and to support the immune response, leading to muscle wasting and a decline in overall protein levels.

Diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract can impair protein absorption, contributing to protein loss. Conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and short bowel syndrome can hinder the digestion and uptake of dietary protein. Similarly, kidney diseases, particularly nephrotic syndrome, are characterized by excessive protein leakage from the blood into the urine, resulting in significant protein depletion. Liver disease can also lead to protein loss as the liver plays a crucial role in synthesizing many essential proteins.

The consequences of protein loss can be widespread, affecting muscle mass and strength, immune function, wound healing, and fluid balance. Edema, or swelling, can develop due to reduced levels of albumin, a key protein in blood plasma that helps maintain osmotic pressure. Addressing protein loss typically involves identifying and treating the underlying cause, alongside dietary modifications to increase protein intake and potentially protein supplementation.