Final answer:
The possible reasons for the child's condition could be marasmus and childhood obesity. Marasmus is a type of starvation where babies eat too few calories and lose weight instead of gaining it. Childhood obesity, characterized by excess body fat, can also lead to a lower BMI and various health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible reason for the child having dry skin and a lower BMI compared to other children his age could be a condition called marasmus, which is a type of starvation. Marasmus occurs when babies eat too few calories, causing them to lose weight instead of gaining it. This can result in dry and crinkled skin, as their bodies use up the fat under the skin for energy. Additionally, inadequate calorie intake can lead to diarrhea, which can further worsen the child's condition if not properly managed.
On the other hand, another possible reason could be childhood obesity. Excess body fat, as measured by the Body Mass Index (BMI), can have negative impacts on a child's health and well-being. Children with obesity may have a higher BMI compared to their peers, and this can be associated with various health issues such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
It's important for healthcare professionals to consider these possibilities and conduct a thorough assessment to determine the underlying cause of the child's dry skin and lower BMI.