In the brain this causes cerebral malaria (Fig. 83-4); in the kidneys it may cause acute tubular necrosis and renal failure; and in the intestines it can cause ischemia and ulceration, leading to gastrointestinal bleeding and to bacteremia secondary to the entry of intestinal bacteria into the systemic circulation. read more
P. falciparum can cause severe malaria because it multiples rapidly in the blood, and can thus cause severe blood loss (anemia). In addition, the infected parasites can clog small blood vessels. When this occurs in the brain, cerebral malaria results, a complication that can be fatal. read more
Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease affecting humans and other animals caused by parasitic protozoans (a group of single-celled microorganisms) belonging to the Plasmodium type. Malaria causes symptoms that typically include fever, tiredness, vomiting, and headaches. In severe cases it can cause yellow skin, seizures, coma, or death. read more