[Ocular changes as a diagnostic tool for malaria].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Malaria affects 229 million annually, with two-thirds of deaths in children under 5.
• Cerebral malaria is a severe complication requiring accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review fundus changes associated with malaria.
• To highlight the diagnostic value of ophthalmoscopy in malaria.

Main Methods:

• Review of fundus examination findings in cerebral malaria.
• Discussion of potential pathomechanisms.
• Evaluation of ophthalmoscopy's practical utility.

Main Results:

• Key retinal findings include retinal whitening, altered vessel coloration, and hemorrhages (e.g., Roth's spots).
• Papilledema is also observed in some cases.
• These changes are specific to malaria.

Conclusions:

• Retinal changes in malaria are specific and aid in differentiating it from other causes of fever and coma.
• Smartphone fundus photography with AI shows promise for malaria diagnostics in resource-limited settings.