NEET PG High-Yield: Malaria
A major vector-borne disease caused by Plasmodium species, transmitted by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito.
| Species | Clinical Fever Pattern |
|---|---|
| P. vivax | Tertian (every 48 hours). |
| P. falciparum | Malignant Tertian (irregular). |
| P. malariae | Quartan (every 72 hours). |
High-Yield NEET PG Pearls:
- Diagnosis: Peripheral blood smear (Thick/Thin films) remains the Gold Standard. Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) target HRP-2 (for falciparum) or pLDH.
- Life Cycle: Human host = Intermediate (Asexual cycle); Mosquito = Definitive (Sexual cycle/Sporogony).
- P. falciparum Complications: Cerebral malaria, blackwater fever, severe anemia, and multi-organ failure.
- Prevention: NVBDCP (National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme) emphasizes early diagnosis, complete treatment, and integrated vector control (LLINs, IRS).
- Relapse vs. Recrudescence: Relapse is due to hypnozoites (vivax/ovale); Recrudescence is due to residual blood infection (falciparum).