IDU- Malaria Flashcards
What causes malaria and what is the route of transmission?
Parasite mainly plasmodium falciparum transmitted by night biting mosquitos vector
Presentation and examination features of malaria.
Acute onset rigors, high fever, malaise, headaches, abdo pain
On examination jaundiced and hepatosplenomegaly
Results of investigations.
Anaemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, a normal liver enzymes
Complications if malaria
Hypoglycaemia, renal failure, DIC, pulmonary oedema, neuro deterioration, death
High fever and altered mental state in a returning traveler could mean
Meningioencephalitis (cerebral malaria)
Where is malaria (p. falciparum) more common?
Africa
Why does malaria cause hepatomegaly?
Because it infects hepatocytes
Why does malaria cause splenomegaly?
RBC destroyed so spleen enlarged leading to increased bilirubin and therefore jaundice
Investigations for malaria.
Blood film x3 over 48 hours
LFTs
FBC
U&Es
Treatment for malaria (P. Falciparum).
IV Artesunate
Quinine
Doxycycline
What must be done before prescribing chloroquinine?
G6PDH
Treatment for malaria (P. Fax & P. Ovale).
Chloroquinine
What does malaria look like on a blood film?
Headphones = schizonts
Banana shaped cells = gametocytes
Which part of the malaria parasites does artesunate target?
Blood schizonts and gametocytes
Contraindication of chloroquine.
Seizures (epilepsy)
