Journal Published Online: 01 September 2004
Volume 49, Issue 5

Estimation of Caloric Deficit in a Fatal Case of Starvation Resulting from Child Neglect

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

We report the case of a 3-year-20-day-old girl who died of starvation as a result of severe neglect. Her body weight had been 12 kg 70 days before her death, but was only 5 kg at the time of autopsy. From information supplied by her parents to police, we calculated her daily caloric intake and estimated the factors for physical activity. The daily recommended dietary allowance for the victim was calculated from 700 kcal/day × the appropriate factor for physical activity.

In the absence of enough food, body fat (7.2 kcal/g body fat) and protein (4 kcal/g protein) would have been used to compensate until death. The calculated body weight at the time of death was around 5 kg. The statements of the parents therefore appear to be true.

Author Information

Nagao, M
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Maeno, Y
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Koyama, H
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Seko-Nakamura, Y
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Monma-Ohtaki, J
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Iwasa, M
Faculty of Care and Rehabilitation, Seijoh University, Tokai-city, Japan
Zhe, LX
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Kawashima, N
University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
Yano, T
Toba Coast Guard Office, 4th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters, Yokkaichi, Japan
Pages: 4
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Stock #: JFS2003426
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2003426