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[Severe malaria in children in Togo]
J K Assimadi1, A D Gbadoé, D Y Atakouma
1Service de pédiatrie, CHU-Tokoin, Lomé.
Summary
Severe malaria in children in Togo is often characterized by severe anemia and cerebral complications. Early management of hypoglycemia and improved intensive care can significantly improve outcomes for severe malaria patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Epidemiology of malaria
- Clinical tropical medicine
Background:
- The definition of severe malaria has expanded beyond cerebral malaria to include other clinical manifestations.
- This study investigates the epidemiological, clinical, and prognostic factors of severe malaria in Togo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological, clinical, and evolutive aspects of severe malaria in children in Togo.
- To identify key factors influencing the prognosis of severe malaria.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 549 children (0-15 years) hospitalized for severe malaria between 1994-1995.
- Data collected included clinical presentation, complications, and outcomes based on World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.
Main Results:
- Severe malaria accounted for 7.44% of pediatric hospitalizations, with the highest incidence in children aged 1-5 years.
- Severe anemia and cerebral complications were the most frequent clinical forms. The mortality rate was 18.94%, and 2.73% experienced neurological sequelae.
- Hypoglycemia was observed in 11.6% of cases and was significantly associated with a poor prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Improving the prognosis of severe malaria in Africa requires enhanced intensive care unit equipment.
- Early and effective management of hypoglycemia is crucial for improving severe malaria outcomes.