Imported Plasmodium ovale malaria in Hefei City: a case report / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To perform epidemiological survey and laboratory diagnosis of a Plasmodium ovale malaria case imported into Hefei City, so as to provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control of imported malaria in the future. Methods The epidemiological history and clinical data of the imported malaria case were collected and analyzed. Results The patient returned to China from Mozambique, and was admitted to the hospital due to repeated fever several months after returning to China. Rapid diagnostic test (RDT) suggested non-P. falciparum infection, and microscopy displayed normal or slightly swelled malaria parasite-infected erythrocytes, unapparent serrated changes, increased cytoplasm in large trophozoite with irregular morphology, and almost no vacuoles. qPCR assay revealed P. ovale infection. Conclusions Clinical medical professionals should improve their awareness of malaria diagnosis in people with a history of living or working in overseas malaria-epidemic areas, and early and rational administration of antimalarials should be given promptly to prevent the spread of malaria epidemics.