Diagnosing Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) involves both anthropometric measurements and clinical assessment.
SAM is diagnosed based on specific criteria that evaluate a child's nutritional status. These criteria primarily involve measurements and clinical signs.
Diagnostic Criteria for SAM
The diagnosis of SAM relies on the following key indicators:
- Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC): MUAC is measured on the left upper arm at the mid-point between the shoulder and the elbow. The arm should be relaxed during measurement. A MUAC measurement of less than 11.5 cm indicates SAM.
It is important to note that other factors may be considered by healthcare professionals in the context of SAM diagnosis, beyond just MUAC as determined in these references.
