A patient with malaria has a temperature of 41°C, seizures, and confusion. What is the diagnosis and treatment?
A Cerebral malaria - Oral chloroquine
B Hyperpyrexia - Cooling plus IV antimalarials
C Sepsis - IV antibiotics
D Heat stroke - Oral fluids
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
The patient with malaria exhibiting high fever (41°C), seizures, and confusion likely has hyperpyrexia, a dangerous elevation of body temperature. This condition requires immediate active cooling measures to prevent further neurological damage. Additionally, intravenous antimalarials are essential to rapidly reduce parasitemia and control infection. Oral chloroquine is inadequate in severe malaria, and antibiotics or fluids alone do not address the primary cause. Prompt recognition and treatment of hyperpyrexia in malaria minimize mortality and complications.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Jameson et al., 20th Edition.