Malaria - Treatment and Complications

What is Malaria?

“Malaria is an infection, a protozoal infection which is also called a vector-borne disease caused by the bite of Anopheles mosquito, especially the female Anopheles mosquito who is infested with the protozoa called the Plasmodium protozoa.” - Dr. Sushila Kataria, Head and Director, Department of Internal Medicine, Medanta the Medicity.

This vector-borne disease primarily causes fever and can lead to various complications if left untreated.

Symptoms of Malaria

The manifestation of malaria begins with a fever that may initially be mild but can progress to high-grade fever accompanied by several symptoms:

• Intense chills throughout the body

• Severe headache

• Potential confusion

• Seizures in severe cases

• Jaundice (yellow discolouration of eyes)

• Dark-colored urine

• Reduced urine output

Diagnosis Methods

Since fever has numerous potential causes, specific diagnostic tests are essential to confirm malaria:

• Rapid Malaria Antigen Test: Detects the presence of malaria antigens in the blood

• Peripheral Blood Smear: Examination of blood under a microscope to identify Plasmodium parasites within red blood cells

• Additional Tests: To assess complications, doctors may recommend:

• Hemoglobin level measurement

• Platelet count

• Liver function tests

• Kidney function tests

Treatment Approaches

As a protozoal infection, malaria requires specific medications to kill the parasite:

Historical Context

Quinine, derived from the cinchona tree, was the first revolutionary medicine used in the treatment of malaria and proved lifesaving in numerous cases.

Current Treatment Options

• Chloroquine

• Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT)

• Combination treatments to combat drug resistance

“Because of the emergence of resistance in Plasmodium or malaria cases, now mostly we use ACT, that is Artemisinin Combination Therapy. Mostly two drugs are used." - Dr. Sushila Kataria.

Along with these medications, supportive and symptomatic treatment is also given.

Personalised Treatment Considerations

Treatment must be individualised based on several factors:

• Patient’s age

• Kidney function

• Pregnancy status (certain medications are contraindicated)

• Children under 12 years (some medicines may not be suitable)

• Liver or kidney dysfunction (requiring dose adjustments)

Preventing Malaria

Prevention focuses on two main strategies:

• Preventing Mosquito Breeding

  • Eliminate stagnant water around living areas

  • Empty water containers every 7 days

  • Where emptying water is not possible, such as large water bodies-big pons, apply oil to larger water bodies to prevent larval development.

• Preventing Mosquito Bites

  • Wear fully covered cotton clothes

  • Use mosquito nets

  • Apply skin-friendly mosquito repellents

Conclusion

Malaria remains a major medical concern, particularly in developing regions. Understanding its reasons, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for timely intervention. More importantly, implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the possibility of contracting this potentially fatal disease.

If you experience symptoms suggestive of malaria, immediately consult a doctor for proper diagnosis & treatment.

FAQs 

1. What are the early warning signs of malaria?

   Early signs include fever with chills, headache, and general discomfort. The fever may initially be mild before progressing to a high grade.

2. Is malaria contagious from person to person?

   No, malaria cannot spread directly from person to person. It requires a mosquito vector for transmission.

3. How quickly should treatment begin after diagnosis?

   Treatment should start immediately after diagnosis to prevent adverse efs and reduce the severity of the disease.

4. Can malaria recur after treatment?

   Yes, certain types of malaria parasites can remain dormant in the liver and cause recurrences if not properly treated.