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Cerebral malaria--a study of 104 cases
M A Faiz1, M R Rahman, M A Hossain
1Deptt. of Medicine, Chittagong Medical College.
Bangladesh Medical Research Council Bulletin
|February 2, 1999
Summary
Cerebral malaria in adults presents with fever, vomiting, and headache. Early intensive care is crucial for reducing mortality in severe cases, with many patients recovering fully.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Cerebral malaria is a severe complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection.
- Early diagnosis and management are critical for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical features, mortality factors, and outcomes of adult cerebral malaria cases.
- To highlight the need for improved intensive care for severe malaria.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 104 adult cerebral malaria cases.
- Data collection included clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, and patient outcomes.
- Analysis of factors associated with high mortality.
Main Results:
- Common symptoms included intermittent fever, vomiting, headache, and convulsions.
- High mortality was associated with low diastolic blood pressure, anemia, low Glasgow Coma Score, high parasite count, proteinuria, and high serum urea.
- 63.5% recovered without sequelae, 32.7% died, and 3.8% had residual sequelae.
Conclusions:
- Intensive care units are essential in tertiary hospitals for managing severe cerebral malaria.
- Prompt and appropriate measures can significantly reduce mortality rates.