Inf: Non-Falciparum Malaria: Free MSRA Podcast

🦟 FREE MSRA PODCAST – Non-falciparum Malaria: Beyond Falciparum – Don’t Miss the Relapse!In this focused episode, we break down everything you need to know about non-falciparum malaria for the MSRA and clinical practice. We cover vivax, ovale, malariae, and the emerging knowlesi species—going well beyond just Plasmodium falciparum. Understand why these types matter for relapse risk, management, and public health.🧠 Key Learning Points📌 What is Non-falciparum Malaria?• Malaria caused by Plasmodium species other than falciparum: mainly vivax, ovale, malariae, and knowlesi• All malaria (including non-falciparum) is notifiable in the UK—report every case📌 Species & Geographic Patterns:• Vivax: Central America, Indian subcontinent, parts of Asia• Ovale: Primarily Africa• Malariae: Less common, scattered globally• Knowlesi: Emerging in Southeast Asia, can cause severe malaria similar to falciparum📌 Life Cycle & Pathophysiology:• Transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes• Vivax and ovale: Dormant liver forms (hypnozoites) cause relapse—unique to these species• Classic fever patterns: – Vivax/ovale: Tertian (every 48 hours) – Malariae: Quartan (every 72 hours)• Main pathology: Cyclical rupture of infected red cells → fever, chills, anaemia📌 Risk Factors:• Travel to endemic areas, poor use of nets/repellents, lack of chemoprophylaxis• Highest risk: children, pregnant women, elderly, non-immune travellers📌 Clinical Features:• Fever, chills, sweats, headache, myalgia, malaise, nausea/vomiting, splenomegaly• Relapse is hallmark of vivax and ovale (due to hypnozoites)• Severe disease more likely with knowlesi or in those with comorbidities📌 Differential Diagnosis:• Malaria mimics: typhoid, dengue, hepatitis, flu, meningitis, viral fevers, HIV seroconversion—always ask about travel history!📌 Diagnosis:• Gold standard: Thick & thin blood films (microscopy with Giemsa stain)• Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) useful but less specific for species• PCR for confirmation/species ID• Routine labs: FBC (↓platelets, anaemia), LFTs, U&Es, blood glucose• Always check G6PD status before primaquine!📌 Management:• Antimalarial drugs depend on species, region, resistance• Chloroquine (if sensitive) plus primaquine for vivax/ovale (eradicates hypnozoites—prevents relapse)• ACTs (artemisinin-based) for resistant/mixed infections• Test for G6PD deficiency before primaquine to avoid haemolysis• Most cases can be managed as outpatient unless severe/at risk—consult ID specialist, follow UK guidelines📌 Prognosis & Complications:• Generally excellent if treated properly• Relapse is common with vivax/ovale unless liver stage treated• Untreated, all malaria can be fatal; complications: severe anaemia, nephrotic syndrome, splenic rupture, multi-organ failure (mainly with falciparum/knowlesi)📌 Prevention:• Chemoprophylaxis (as per UK guidelines)• Insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor spraying, personal protection• Vaccines mostly target falciparum so far• Public health reporting is essential📎 More MSRA Malaria Resources:📝 Revision Notes: https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/non-falciparum-malaria-revision-notes/🧠 Flashcards: https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/non-falciparum-malaria-flashcards/💬 Accordion Q&A: https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/non-falciparum-malaria-accordion-qa-notes/🚀 Rapid Quiz: https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/non-falciparum-malaria-rapid-quiz/🔗 Quiz: https://www.passthemsra.com/quizzes/non-falciparum-malaria/🎓 Infectious Diseases for the MSRA: https://www.passthemsra.com/courses/infectious-diseases-for-the-msra/#MSRA #Malaria #NonFalciparumMalaria #Vivax #Ovale #Knowlesi #MSRARevision #MSRAQuiz #PassTheMSRA #TropicalMedicine #MalariaRelapse #InfectiousDiseases #G6PD