Malaria

The book introduces malaria as a parasitic infection caused by Plasmodium species transmitted by female Anophelesmosquitoes. It explains the life cycle of the parasite, including sporozoites, merozoites, schizogony, and gametogony, and describes how the parasite damages the liver and red blood cells.

Different forms of malaria are outlined, including quartan fever from Plasmodium malariae, tertian fever from Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale, and malignant tertian fever from Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous species. The text highlights symptoms such as fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, seizures, and organ complications.

Severe malaria is described, including cerebral malaria, hemolytic anemia, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, and multi-organ failure. The book also explains complications such as splenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and metabolic acidosis.

Diagnostic methods like blood tests and imaging are presented, alongside general approaches to treatment and management. Preventive measures such as insect repellent, protective clothing, screened housing, and bed nets are also emphasized.

This book will interest students, healthcare workers, and general audiences who want to understand malaria, its risks, and the strategies available for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.