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Congenital malaria with atypical presentation in a preterm neonate
1Department of Pediatrics, Katihar Medical College and Hospital, Katihar, Bihar, India.
Journal of Clinical Neonatology
|November 20, 2013
Summary
Congenital malaria (CM) is rare, typically causing fever, jaundice, and anemia. This case highlights a unique presentation of CM without fever, despite other classic symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- Congenital malaria (CM) is an uncommon parasitic infection transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery.
- Fever is a hallmark symptom of CM, often accompanied by jaundice, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly.
- Fewer than 300 cases of CM have been documented globally, underscoring its rarity.
Observation:
- A neonate presented with clinical manifestations consistent with congenital malaria.
- The infant exhibited jaundice, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly, which are typical signs of CM.
- Notably, the infant did not present with fever, an atypical clinical feature for CM.
Findings:
- This case represents a rare instance of congenital malaria presenting without fever.
- The presence of typical CM symptoms (jaundice, anemia, hepatosplenomegaly) in the absence of fever challenges conventional diagnostic criteria.
- Diagnostic confirmation relied on identifying Plasmodium parasites in the infant's blood.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider congenital malaria in neonates with typical CM signs, even without fever.
- This case broadens the clinical spectrum of congenital malaria, aiding in earlier diagnosis and treatment.
- Increased awareness of atypical CM presentations is crucial for improving infant outcomes and reducing morbidity.
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