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Pitting function of the spleen in malaria: ultrastructural observations
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 14, 1972
Summary
The spleen removes malaria parasites from red blood cells in Plasmodium knowlesi infected monkeys. This parasite removal explains excessive red blood cell destruction and spherocyte presence during malaria.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Plasmodium knowlesi causes malaria.
- Spleen function in malaria is not fully understood.
- Excessive hemolysis occurs in experimental malaria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the spleen's role in removing malaria parasites.
- To explain the presence of spherocytes in malaria.
Main Methods:
- Ultrastructural studies of monkey spleens.
- Analysis of erythrocytes in peripheral blood.
Main Results:
- The spleen "pits" malaria parasites from red blood cells.
- Nonparasitized spherocytic erythrocytes are found in peripheral blood.
- Spleen function may explain hemolysis-parasitemia discrepancy.
Conclusions:
- The spleen actively removes Plasmodium knowlesi from erythrocytes.
- Spleen-mediated parasite removal contributes to malaria pathology.
- Understanding spleen function is crucial for malaria treatment.