CO-EXISTENT FALCIPARUM MALARIA AND ACUTE VIRAL HEPATITIS

Abstract

Both malaria and acute viral hepatitis are commonly encountered in our part of the world1,2. Even though full blown cases are usually very easy to recognize, clinical features of the two diseases bear strong resemblance in the initial stages, leading to diagnostic uncertainties and probably unnecessary treatment in a small fraction of patients3. The two diseases can co-exist in any given patient and accentuate each other’s effects. For example, altered consciousness can result from both cerebral malaria and (viral) fulminant hepatic failure. Similarly, hepatocyte injury and hypoglycaemia are common features/ complications of both the illnesses. Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management. Problem arises when one has to decide whether there is a single disease or co- existing pathologies. The aim of this case report is to highlight these issues by presenting one such case followed by discussion on the diagnostic challenges