Algid Malaria

Algid Malaria

✦ Algid malaria is a severe complication of P. falciparum malaria characterised by:

➠ Cold, clammy, pale skin (algid = cold)

➠ Profound hypotension and peripheral circulatory collapse (systolic BP <80 mmHg in adults)

➠ Features of shock: weak rapid pulse, tachycardia, oliguria

✦ It results from sequestration of parasitised RBCs in the gut and adrenal microvasculature, causing impaired perfusion and cardiovascular collapse

✦ May be complicated by secondary gram-negative bacteraemia from gut translocation

✦ Management: IV fluids, vasopressors, IV artesunate, blood cultures and broad-spectrum antibiotics if bacterial sepsis suspected