Delayed-Onset White Matter Lesions on Brain MRI in Recurrent Non-cerebral Plasmodium falciparum Imported Malaria Without Neurological Symptoms
2024

Brain Changes in Non-Cerebral Malaria

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Rico Daniela S, Kim Aengela Jihyoun, Zoken Yael, Radhakrishna Suman, Liu Antonio K

Primary Institution: Ross University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

Can recurrent non-cerebral malaria infections lead to significant brain changes detectable by MRI?

Conclusion

The study suggests that even non-cerebral malaria can cause significant, long-lasting brain changes.

Supporting Evidence

  • Brain MRI abnormalities have been documented in cerebral malaria.
  • Few studies have reported MRI findings in non-cerebral malaria.
  • The patient had significant white matter lesions despite being asymptomatic.

Takeaway

This study shows that people who have malaria without brain symptoms might still have hidden brain problems that can show up on scans later.

Methodology

Case study of a patient with recurrent non-cerebral malaria and MRI analysis.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

A 50-year-old male businessman with a history of non-cerebral malaria.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.7759/cureus.76416

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