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Selection of Plasmodium falciparum Parasites for Cytoadhesion to Human Brain Endothelial Cells
10:09

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Published on: January 3, 2012

The effect of Plasmodium falciparum on cognition: a systematic review

Michael Kihara1, Julie A Carter, Charles R J C Newton

  • 1The Centre for Geographical Medicine Research (Coast), KEMRI, Kilifi, Kenya. mkihara@kilifi.mimcom.net

Tropical Medicine & International Health : TM & IH
|March 24, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Malaria infection, caused by Plasmodium falciparum, can lead to widespread cognitive deficits affecting attention, memory, and executive functions, even in less severe cases. Further research is needed to fully understand these impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cognitive Psychology

Background:

  • Plasmodium falciparum is a parasite responsible for malaria, a significant global health concern.
  • Cognitive impairment is a recognized complication of severe malaria, particularly cerebral malaria.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the existing literature on the relationship between Plasmodium falciparum infection and cognitive function.
  • To synthesize findings on the types and extent of cognitive deficits associated with malaria across different severity levels.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature search across major databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO) and grey literature.
  • Inclusion criteria focused on studies using standardized cognitive tests and differentiating between pediatric and adult populations.
  • Analysis of 18 eligible studies, with detailed examination of three studies covering multiple cognitive domains.

Main Results:

  • Plasmodium falciparum infection is associated with deficits in attention, memory, visuo-spatial skills, language, and executive functions.
  • Cognitive impairments are observed not only in cerebral malaria but also in less severe forms of the infection.
  • The impact of P. falciparum on the brain appears to be global rather than localized, with outcomes influenced by biological and social factors.

Conclusions:

  • Malaria infection can result in broad cognitive deficits impacting various domains.
  • Further research is warranted to quantify the extent of these deficits using culturally sensitive methods and precise disease criteria.
Abstract

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