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Cerebral malaria in Jabalpur, India
M M Shukla1, N Singh, M P Singh
1Malaria Research Centre, (Field Station), Medical College Building, Jabalpur, India.
Abstract:
A total of 1783 patients were admitted in Govt. Medical College Hospital, Jabalpur with fever in 1993. Out of these 152 (8.5%) patients had cerebral malaria, of which 39 (25.6%) patients died. Age and sex-wise break-up indicated that males suffered more (p < 0.01) from malaria and majority of patients belonged to 16-40 yrs age-group. Mortality was significantly higher in patients with hyperparasitaemia, hypoglycaemia and delayed diagnosis and treatment. Comatose condition was the main determinant of death.
Insights
Cerebral malaria affected 8.5% of fever patients, with higher mortality in males and those with delayed treatment. Coma was a key factor in deaths from this severe malaria complication.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Epidemiology
Background:
- Malaria remains a significant public health concern, particularly in endemic regions.
- Cerebral malaria is a severe, life-threatening complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection.
- Understanding risk factors for mortality is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and mortality of cerebral malaria in a tertiary care hospital.
- To identify demographic, clinical, and treatment-related factors associated with cerebral malaria mortality.
- To determine the primary determinants of death in cerebral malaria patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1783 patients admitted with fever.
- Identification of cerebral malaria cases and analysis of demographic data.
- Comparison of characteristics and outcomes between survivors and non-survivors.
Main Results:
- Out of 1783 fever admissions, 152 (8.5%) had cerebral malaria, with a 25.6% mortality rate (39 deaths).
- Males and the 16-40 years age group were predominantly affected.
- Higher mortality was observed in patients with hyperparasitaemia, hypoglycaemia, and delayed diagnosis/treatment.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral malaria poses a significant mortality risk, especially in males and younger adults.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, alongside management of complications like coma, are critical for reducing mortality.
- Hyperparasitaemia, hypoglycaemia, and delayed interventions are key indicators of poor prognosis.