[Indications characteristic for different antiparasitic treatments in endemic zones]

In endemic regions, certain anti-parasitic therapies are automatically prescribed when confronted with apparently benign childhood disorders. The diagnostic differentiation between a simple febrile seizure provoked by Plasmodium falciparum is often impossible, requiring the initial use of intravenous quinine. Helminth or Giardia infestations often aggravate the chronic diarrhea of malnutrition, or are revealed with corticosteroid therapy, necessitating the initiation of an appropriate treatment. In addition, the frequent association of typhoid and schistosomiasis, requires therapy for both in order to prevent relapses.