Kwashiorkor during pregnancy: A rare complication of bariatric surgery with fetal health consequences

Bariatric surgery, while beneficial for managing obesity and improving fertility, can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies that impact maternal and fetal health. We report the case of a 31-year-old woman with a history of gastric bypass who developed Kwashiorkor, a rare and severe complication of malnutrition, during the second trimester of her twin pregnancy. This condition was associated with severe intrauterine growth restriction. Kwashiorkor, typically seen in young children suffering from famine in low-income regions, is characterized by severe protein deficiency. In this case, parenteral nutrition led to rapid maternal improvement and a noticeable resumption of fetal growth within days. This case highlights the importance of tailored monitoring and nutritional management for pregnant women with a history of bariatric surgery.