High prevalence of drug-resistance mutations in malaria in southern Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Mirjam Schunk, Wondimagegn Kumma, Isabel Barreto Miranda, Maha Osman, Susanne Roewer, Abraham Alano, Thomas Löscher, Ulrich Bienzle, Frank Mockenhaupt
Primary Institution: Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, University of Munich
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of drug-resistance mutations in Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in southern Ethiopia?
Conclusion
The study found a very high frequency of drug-resistance mutations in both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in southern Ethiopia, indicating that current treatments are inadequate.
Supporting Evidence
- 69% of patients had P. falciparum and 31% had P. vivax.
- 87% of P. falciparum isolates had Pfdhfr triple mutations.
- All P. falciparum isolates showed the pfcrt T76 mutation.
Takeaway
In southern Ethiopia, many malaria parasites are resistant to common treatments, making it hard to cure the disease.
Methodology
The study assessed drug-resistance mutations in 100 patients with uncomplicated malaria using blood samples and PCR assays.
Limitations
The study did not assess pre-treatment drug levels, which could provide additional insights into resistance.
Participant Demographics
The median age of participants was 17 years, with 57 females and 43 males.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval, 7,600–48,000
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website