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Malaria is a major public health problem in the developing world owing to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. Of all the malarial parasites that infect humans, Plasmodium falciparum is most commonly associated with neurological complications, which manifest as agitation, psychosis, seizures, impaired consciousness and coma (cerebral malaria). Cerebral malaria is the most severe neurological complication; the condition is associated with mortality of 15-20%, and a substantial proportion of individuals with this condition develop neurocognitive sequelae. In this Review, we describe the various neurological complications encountered in malaria, discuss the underlying pathogenesis, and outline current management strategies for these complications. Furthermore, we discuss the role of adjunctive therapies in improving outcome.

Original publication

DOI

10.1038/nrneurol.2009.23

Type

Journal article

Journal

Nat Rev Neurol

Publication Date

04/2009

Volume

5

Pages

189 - 198

Keywords

Animals, Humans, Malaria, Falciparum, Nervous System Diseases, Plasmodium falciparum