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Plasmodium vivax resistance to chloroquine?
K H Rieckmann1, D R Davis, D C Hutton
1Army Malaria Research Unit, University of Sydney, Milpo, Ingleburn, NSW, Australia.
Lancet (London, England)
|November 18, 1989
Summary
Two soldiers on chloroquine prophylaxis for malaria in Papua New Guinea showed treatment failure. This suggests Plasmodium vivax strains may be developing resistance to chloroquine.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chloroquine is a standard antimalarial drug used for prophylaxis.
- Papua New Guinea is an area endemic for Plasmodium vivax malaria.
Observation:
- Two soldiers returning from Papua New Guinea developed Plasmodium vivax malaria despite weekly chloroquine prophylaxis.
- Elevated plasma chloroquine levels were observed, exceeding those typically effective for malaria suppression.
Findings:
- Parasitemia persisted even after a higher dose of chloroquine treatment.
- The study indicates a potential decrease in susceptibility of Plasmodium vivax strains to chloroquine.
Implications:
- Chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium vivax could impact malaria control strategies.
- Further research is needed to monitor antimalarial drug resistance in the region.