Question

Management of severe malaria

Hint:

Early administration of intravenous artesunate is essential for the effective management of severe malaria.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding severe malaria.
Severe malaria is a life-threatening complication of malaria, primarily caused by Plasmodium falciparum. It requires immediate medical attention. Common manifestations include cerebral malaria, severe anemia, and organ dysfunction.

Step 2: Management principles.
- Initial Assessment: Perform an immediate clinical assessment to evaluate the severity of symptoms, including level of consciousness and signs of organ failure.
- Antimalarial Treatment: Administer intravenous artesunate or quinine as the first-line treatment for severe malaria, ideally within the first hour of diagnosis.
- Supportive Care: Intensive care for severe malaria may include fluid resuscitation, oxygen therapy, blood transfusion (if needed), and the correction of metabolic imbalances.
- Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of vital signs, blood glucose, and electrolyte levels is critical.

Step 3: Conclusion.
Severe malaria requires early intervention with intravenous antimalarial treatment, supportive care, and close monitoring to reduce mortality and morbidity.