Which condition is characterized by a failure to thrive and is associated with malnutrition due to inadequate protein intake?

The condition characterized by a failure to thrive and linked to malnutrition specifically due to insufficient protein intake is Kwashiorkor. This condition typically arises when a child is weaned from breast milk and subsequently receives a diet that is high in carbohydrates but low in protein. As a result, the individual develops severe protein deficiency, which leads to symptoms such as edema, irritability, and failure to grow appropriately.

Kwashiorkor is especially noted for the presence of edema due to the lack of protein, which is necessary for maintaining osmotic pressure in the blood vessels. This deficiency can also cause liver enlargement, skin lesions, and changes in hair pigmentation.

In contrast, other conditions listed, such as Marasmus, is characterized by overall energy deficiency rather than a specific lack of proteins. Scurvy is a vitamin C deficiency condition leading to issues like bleeding gums and joint pain, while Rickets is due to vitamin D deficiency, resulting in weakened bones in children. These distinctions clarify why Kwashiorkor is specifically noted for protein malnutrition and its symptoms of failure to thrive.