DOI: 10.12890/2014_000073
Haemophagocytic Syndrome in a 19-Year-Old Male with Plasmodium falciparum Malaria
Authors
sabine.allard@uzbrussel.be
Abstract
Objectives: Infectious agents triggering haemophagocyticlymphohistiocytosis (HLH) primarily involve the herpes virus group. We report a case of HLH precipitated by Plasmodium falciparum.
Materials and methods: Clinical and laboratory findings in a patient presenting with fever were collected. After confirmation of acute malaria, anti-malarial treatment was administered.
Results: Despite initial favourable evolution, the patient developed fever again together with a worsening of the haematological parameters and increased ferritin levels. A bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of HLH.
Conclusion: This case illustrates that HLH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute malaria in patients with persisting fever and pancytopenia.
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