CORPUS CHRISTI (March 17, 2009)--A doctor has testified in a custody hearing in Corpus Christi that she could find no medical explanation for the severe malnutrition of a 3-year-old boy who was hospitalized last month weighing 23 pounds.

The boy has since gained six pounds, but remains in the hospital.

A Child Protective Services investigator's affidavit says the child had heart rate trouble and no muscle mass when he was hospitalized Feb. 27.

He also required a breathing tube.

In the affidavit, a CPS investigator reported Dr. Nancy Harper said she believed the boy's condition is consistent with abuse or neglect.

A today recessed the hearing until March 23 to allow an attorney for the mother time to review the medical records.

The Corpus Christi Caller-Times reports no charges have been filed and police are investigating.