During assessment, an infant shows a protruding belly with an edematous face and limbs. This condition is best described as?

The described symptoms of a protruding belly along with an edematous face and limbs are indicative of Kwashiorkor, which is a form of severe malnutrition primarily caused by protein deficiency in the diet. Kwashiorkor is characterized by edema, which results from a lack of protein, leading to an imbalance in the distribution of fluids in the body. The protruding abdomen can occur due to fluid accumulation and is a common appearance in children affected by this condition.

In contrast, Potter Syndrome is a condition associated with oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) leading to distinct physical manifestations, none of which include edema as described in the question. A scaphoid abdomen refers to a condition where the abdomen appears sunken or concave, often due to diaphragmatic hernia, which does not match the described protrusion and edema. Marasmus, another type of malnutrition, leads to significant loss of muscle mass and body fat without the edema typically seen in Kwashiorkor.

Thus, the presence of both abdominal protrusion and edema strongly aligns with the clinical presentation of Kwashiorkor, making it the best descriptor for this infant's condition.