Comparing Albumin and Gelofusine for Treating Severe Malaria in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Akech Samuel, Gwer Samson, Idro Richard, Fegan Greg, Eziefula Alice C, Newton Charles R. J. C, Levin Michael, Maitland Kathryn
Primary Institution: Kenya Medical Research Institute/Wellcome Trust Research Programme
Hypothesis
Does albumin provide a greater survival benefit than Gelofusine in children with severe malaria?
Conclusion
The study found that albumin infusion is associated with lower mortality compared to Gelofusine in children with severe malaria.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included 88 children, with 44 receiving Gelofusine and 44 receiving albumin.
- Mortality was lower in the albumin group (2.3%) compared to the Gelofusine group (16%).
- Fatal neurological events were more common in the Gelofusine group.
Takeaway
This study looked at two types of fluids given to sick children with malaria. It found that one type, albumin, helped them survive better than the other type, Gelofusine.
Methodology
This was a phase II safety and efficacy study comparing albumin and Gelofusine in children with severe malaria.
Potential Biases
The allocation of interventions was not concealed, which may introduce selection bias.
Limitations
The study was not originally designed to detect a clinically relevant difference in death rate and used a quasi-randomized design.
Participant Demographics
Children with severe falciparum malaria, including those with impaired consciousness or respiratory distress.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.06
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.06–0.59
Statistical Significance
p = 0.06
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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