Overview of non-falciparum malaria in nonpregnant adults and children

Journal article

Non-falciparum malaria refers to malaria infection due to Plasmodium species other than P. falciparum; these include P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. knowlesi

Worldwide, the greatest mortality due to malaria is associated with P. falciparum infection. Infections caused by P. knowlesi and P. vivax are also associated with significant risk of morbidity and mortality [2-4]; patients with uncomplicated malaria due to these species are vulnerable to deterioration even after initiation of treatment, and P. vivax infection may be complicated by recurrent infection and associated anemia [5]. Rarely, severe illness and death occur in the setting of infection with P. malariae or P. ovale

The epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of nonfalciparum malaria in nonpregnant adults and children will be reviewed here. Issues related to non-falciparum malaria in pregnant women are discussed separately, as are issues related to P. falciparum malaria. (See "Prevention and treatment of malaria in pregnant women", section on 'Non-falciparum malaria' and "Treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in nonpregnant adults and children" and "Treatment of severe malaria".)

Authors: Baird, J; Price, R

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Wolters Kluwer Health
• Journal: UpToDate
• Publication date: 2016-05-01
• Acceptance date: 2016-05-12
• Keywords: SBTMR