RESPONSE OF FALCIPARUM MALARIA TO A COMBINATION OF QUININE AND SULFADOXINE-PYRIMETHAMINE IN BOOMY COUNTY OF LIBERIA

Falciparum Malaria Treatment in Liberia

Abstract

Objective: To document the response of Falciparum malaria to a combination of Quinine and sulfadoxine- Pyrimethamine in Boomy County of Liberia.
Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.
Place and duration of Study: Pak Level-II Hospital Tubmanburg, Boomy County Liberia over a period of one year (Jan 2006 – Dec 2006).
Patients and Methods: Employees of United Nations’ Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) mostly Pakistani soldiers but also other nationals belonging to different countries; who presented with Falciparum malaria and treated with quinine were included in the study. Falciparum malaria was confirmed microscopically in each case and was treated with a seven day course of Quinine followed by a single dose of Fansidar (sulfadoxine- Pyrimethamine).
Results: A total of 69 patients were treated with Quinine; age range 20 to 50 years; 43 Pakistanis and 26 other nationals. All responded well to a combination of Quinine and sulfadoxine- Pyrimethamine. Fever settled within 72 hours in 91% of cases and parasite disappeared from the blood in 96% cases within 72 hours.
Conclusion: A combination of Quinine and sulfadoxine- Pyrimethamine is very effective in the treatment of Falciparum malaria. Majority of patients became asymptomatic within 72 hours.