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A Simple Protocol for Platelet-mediated Clumping of Plasmodium falciparum-infected Erythrocytes in a Resource Poor Setting
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[Cerebral malaria in children]

J J García-Peñas1, V Quintero, L G Gutiérrez-Solana

  • 1Sección de Neurología-2, Hospital Niño Jesús, Madrid, España.

Revista De Neurologia
|April 1, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Cerebral malaria, a severe complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection, presents with neurological symptoms and can lead to long-term disability. Increased awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of imported malaria cases.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is a major global health issue, particularly in developing countries.
  • Cerebral malaria is a life-threatening complication in children, characterized by altered consciousness, P. falciparum parasitemia, and acute encephalopathy.
  • High mortality rates (up to 50%) and significant long-term neurological deficits (around 20%) underscore the severity of cerebral malaria.

Observation:

  • This study reviewed three pediatric cases of cerebral malaria diagnosed between 1990 and 1998 in Spain.
  • All patients exhibited acute encephalopathy, presenting with fever, obtundation, and seizures.
  • Neurological sequelae, primarily hemiparesis, were observed in all affected children.

Findings:

  • The reviewed cases highlight the occurrence of cerebral malaria in non-endemic regions.
  • Neurological manifestations, including encephalopathy and seizures, are key indicators of severe malaria.
  • Residual neurological deficits are a common outcome in survivors of pediatric cerebral malaria.

Implications:

  • Increased global travel and migration necessitate greater awareness of imported malaria among healthcare professionals, especially pediatricians.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, potentially with parenteral quinine due to resistant strains, are critical for improving outcomes.
  • Further research and education are needed to manage the rising incidence of imported malaria and its neurological complications.
Abstract

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