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Plasmodium knowlesi - an emerging pathogen
1School of Medicine, University of St Andrews St Andrews, UK.
ISBT Science Series
|June 2, 2015
Summary
Ten years after its discovery, Plasmodium knowlesi malaria in humans is now recognized across Southeast Asia. This review summarizes key findings on P. knowlesi infections, including its zoonotic origins and impact on malaria elimination efforts.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Plasmodium knowlesi, a simian malaria parasite, was identified in human infections in Malaysian Borneo a decade ago.
- Initial cases were misdiagnosed as P. malariae due to morphological similarities, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
- P. knowlesi infections have since been detected across Southeast Asia, indicating a significant zoonotic event.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes findings from studies on P. knowlesi malaria over the past 10 years.
- It examines the parasite's pathophysiology, virulence, and host-switch dynamics.
- The review also covers clinical management, treatment strategies, and implications for malaria elimination.
Key Points:
- Morphological resemblance between P. knowlesi and P. malariae complicates diagnosis via microscopy.
- Species-specific PCR assays confirmed the widespread presence of P. knowlesi in human populations.
- Understanding the zoonotic nature and host-switch events of P. knowlesi is crucial for public health.
Conclusions:
- A decade of research has elucidated the epidemiology and clinical significance of P. knowlesi malaria.
- Effective management and control strategies are essential to prevent its impact on malaria elimination goals.
- Further research is needed to fully understand P. knowlesi's complex relationship with human and simian hosts.
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