Case of Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria in a Swedish Traveler
Author Information
Author(s): Ulf Bronner, Paul Divis, Anna Färnert, Balbir Singh
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital
Hypothesis
Can Plasmodium knowlesi infect short-term travelers in Southeast Asia?
Conclusion
The case demonstrates that P. knowlesi can infect short-term visitors to areas in Southeast Asia, and mefloquine was effective for treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- P. knowlesi is recognized as the fifth species of Plasmodium causing malaria in humans.
- The patient was treated with mefloquine and improved rapidly.
- PCR assays confirmed the infection after initial rapid diagnostic tests failed.
Takeaway
A Swedish man got malaria from a mosquito while visiting the jungle in Malaysia, and doctors found it using a special test after a quick treatment helped him feel better.
Methodology
The infection was confirmed using PCR assays and molecular characterization.
Limitations
The rapid diagnostic test failed to detect the infection due to low parasitaemia.
Participant Demographics
A 35-year-old Swedish male traveler.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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