Congenital malaria in The Netherlands

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Medicine
• Neonatology

Background:

• Malaria, a parasitic disease, is typically associated with endemic regions.
• Congenital malaria transmission, while rare, poses diagnostic challenges in newborns.

Observation:

• A 3-month-old infant born in the Netherlands to an Indian mother presented with fever, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly shortly after birth.
• Plasmodium vivax malaria parasites were identified in both the infant and the mother.
• Infant's serum showed early presence of specific IgM antibodies, suggesting congenital transmission.

Findings:

• Confirmed congenital Plasmodium vivax malaria in a neonate.
• Demonstrated recurrent anemia and hepatosplenomegaly as clinical manifestations.
• Identified P. vivax in maternal peripheral blood film.

Implications:

• This case represents the first reported instance of congenital P. vivax malaria in the Netherlands.
• Highlights the importance of considering malaria in febrile infants with relevant travel history, even in non-endemic areas.
• Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and management of congenital malaria to prevent severe outcomes.