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Spontaneous subdural empyema in falciparum malaria: a case study
S Dwarakanath1, A Suri, A K Mahapatra
1Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosciences Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Journal of Vector Borne Diseases
|January 28, 2005
Summary
A rare case of subdural empyema occurred in a child with falciparum malaria. Surgical intervention and antibiotics successfully managed this complication, highlighting a treatable outcome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Malaria, particularly falciparum malaria, is a prevalent tropical disease.
- Cerebral malaria typically presents as diffuse encephalopathy, with focal neurological signs being uncommon.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old girl developed unconsciousness and seizures during malaria treatment.
- Imaging revealed an acute subdural hematoma with brain herniation.
- Laboratory tests showed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and confirmed falciparum malaria.
Findings:
- The patient had a spontaneous subdural empyema complicating falciparum malaria.
- Treatment included surgical evacuation of the subdural hematoma and empyema, along with quinine and antibiotics.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but surgically manageable complication of falciparum malaria.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in such cases.