Cutaneous findings in five cases of malaria

Abstract

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by protozoa of the genus Plasmodium. Cutaneous lesions in malaria are rarely reported and include urticaria, angioedema, petechiae, purpura, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Here, five malaria cases associated with cutaneous lesions have been described. Out of the five cases of malaria, two were associated with urticaria and angioedema, one case was associated with urticaria, and other two were associated with reticulated blotchy erythema with petechiae. Most of the cutaneous lesions in malaria were nonspecific and reflected the different immunopathological mechanism in malarial infection.

Case reports on atypical presentation of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in pediatric patients

“…It is due to immunological factors, increase vascular permeability and capillary-dilatation due to cell mediators such as histamine, serotonin, heparin, and proteoglycans. [ 9 ] As observed in our case, rarely (1.35-25.6% incidence rate) urticaria may also be present without fever as the primary manifestation. [ 10 ] Although the deposition of IGE in endothelial cells cause itching followed by urticaria, however this generally subsides after 12-48 h of antimalarial management.…”

A not so common cause for fever with rashes

“…9 In malaria cutaneous manifestations are non-specific and can present as petechiae, purpura urticaria and angioedema. 10 In secondary syphilis the most observed clinical presentation is a generalized papulosquamous eruption and condyloma lata of the moist areas. 9 In maculopapular drug reactions, erythematous macules and papules become confluent in a symmetric, generalized distribution sparing face and involving mucous membranes, palms and soles.…”

Febrile urticaria in a family: uncommon manifestation of a common disease

“…It usually presents as an acute febrile illness which may involve various organs including the central nervous system, kidney, liver, etc. Cutaneous involvement is uncommon and may manifest in the form of urticaria, angioedema, petechiae, purpura, and purpura fulminans [1] Urticarial rash in association with malaria was recognised as early as 1945 [2]. Urticarial rash has been reported usually in association with Plasmodium falciparum and occasionally with Plasmodium vivax malaria [3].…”