ABSTRACT
Introduction. In 1965 Bulgaria was recognized by World Health Organization as a malaria-eradicated country. However, isolated cases of malaria imported from endemic countries are diagnosed each year. We will present the case of a patient with cerebral malaria, who travelled in Africa.
Case report. A 36-year old woman was admitted to the hospital with flu-like symptoms. The epidemiological history of the patient revealed she stayed in Ivory Coast without undertaking chemo prophylaxis, prior to her departure to the African country. The disease started as a flu and coincided with the rise of viral diseases in Bulgaria. Laboratory examinations of nasal smear by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) did not confirm the initial suspicion. The patient‘s condition deteriorated and additional studies have shown cerebral malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Despite the complex treatment, the outcome was fatal.
Conclusion. Certain epidemiological and clinical risks generate import of malaria in Europe from endemic countries. The case of cerebral malaria described is the most frequent and severe complication of malaria falciparum. Chemoprophylaxis prior to departure for endemic regions, as well as monitoring of persons returned from those areas, are important for timely discovery, diagnosis and proper treatment of contaminated individuals.
Keywords: cerebral malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, epidemiological risk
Corresponding author:
Milena KARCHEVA
Medical University – Pleven, Bulgaria
Address: 1 Sv. Kl. Ohridski Street, Pleven 5800, Bulgaria
Email: milena_karcheva@abv.bg; Phone +35 988 4208
