Severe falciparum malaria in children in Enugu, South East Nigeria

• DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_140_18
• Publication Date: 2023-08-21T11:30:55Z
• Authors: BO Edelu; IK Ndu; OO Igbokwe; ON Iloh
• Keywords: Presentation (obstetrics); Severe Malaria

Introduction: Severe malaria remains one of the leading causes morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa parts Asia despite several efforts prevention management. The prevalence pattern presentation may vary from location to another age group another. Objectives: This study was undertaken review severe among children presenting two tertiary hospitals Enugu, south-east Nigeria. Methods: case records with state were retrieved necessary information obtained using a structured questionnaire. Results: aged 1 month 184 months (15 years), median 36 mean 49.2 ± 42.7 months. About two-thirds (68/102, 66.7%) under 5 years, only 6 them (8.8%) being below. There significantly more males than females (χ2 = 6.48, P 0.01); M:F ratio 1.55:1. peak August November. Prostration, respiratory distress anaemia commonest features malaria, while shock, acute renal failure abnormal bleeding least Of all features, related age, 5.027, 0.02). Sixty-one (59.8%) had or co-morbidities. 2 deaths, giving fatality rate 1.96%. Conclusion: Early will reduce blood transfusions, prolonged admission death malaria.