Hearing Effects of Artesunate and Mefloquine in Malaria Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Carrara Verena I, Phyo Aung P, Nwee Paw, Soe Ma, Htoo Hsar, Arunkamomkiri Jaruwan, Singhasivanon Pratap, Nosten François
Primary Institution: Shoklo Malaria Research Unit
Hypothesis
Does the combination of artesunate and mefloquine cause auditory toxicity in patients with uncomplicated falciparum malaria?
Conclusion
The study found no evidence of auditory toxicity from artesunate and mefloquine treatment after seven days.
Supporting Evidence
- 93 patients completed auditory tests before and after treatment.
- Hearing loss was common at admission but did not worsen after treatment.
- No significant changes in auditory brainstem response were observed.
Takeaway
Doctors wanted to see if a malaria treatment hurt people's hearing, but it didn't seem to cause any problems after a week.
Methodology
Patients received a 3-day treatment of artesunate and mefloquine, with auditory tests conducted before and after treatment.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from excluding patients with certain health conditions.
Limitations
The study excluded severely ill patients and those with prior ear issues, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
93 patients, predominantly male (79.6%), average age 26.6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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