Question

Plasmodium that affects humans

• A. P. Vivax
• B. P. Ovale
• C. P. Malaria
• D. All of the above

Hint:

When identifying the malaria-causing Plasmodium, focus on the geographic region and clinical presentation. P. Vivax is the most common, followed by P. falciparum.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The Plasmodium species that affect humans are responsible for malaria, and the most common ones are:

• Plasmodium falciparum: This species is the most dangerous and responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths. It causes severe forms of malaria and is associated with complications like cerebral malaria.
• Plasmodium vivax: P. vivax is the most widespread species and causes a more chronic form of malaria, often recurring due to the ability of the parasite to remain dormant in the liver.
• Plasmodium ovale: Similar to P. vivax, P. ovale causes relapsing malaria. It is less common but still found in certain tropical regions.
• Plasmodium malariae: This species causes a more mild form of malaria, and infections can be persistent, but it is less severe compared to P. falciparum and P. vivax.

Transmission: Malaria is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, which carry the Plasmodium parasite. The parasite enters the bloodstream and infects liver cells, before spreading to red blood cells.

Plasmodium species undergo different stages of development in both the mosquito vector and human host, leading to the symptoms of malaria, including fever, chills, and anemia.