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Transfusion-transmitted malaria in Canada
R Slinger1, A Giulivi, M Bodie-Collins
1Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Population and Public Health Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ont. slinger@cheo.on.ca
Summary
Transfusion-transmitted malaria is rare but possible in Canada. Healthcare providers should consider this diagnosis in patients with unexplained symptoms and examine blood smears immediately.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Malaria is a serious parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes.
- Blood transfusions are a potential, albeit rare, route of malaria transmission.
Observation:
- Three cases of malaria transmitted through blood transfusions in Canada were identified.
- Patients presented with undiagnosed symptoms suggestive of malaria.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of transfusion-transmitted malaria requires a high index of suspicion.
- Microscopic examination of thick and thin blood smears is crucial for prompt diagnosis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider transfusion-transmitted malaria in the differential diagnosis of febrile illnesses in transfusion recipients.
- Urgent blood smear analysis is vital to prevent delayed diagnosis and ensure appropriate treatment.