Abstract

Background: Aim & Objectives: To study the ABG and electrolyte disturbances in
severe malaria. To assess the prognostic significance of these parameters.
Materials and Methods: The present study is a prospective study of 50 patients above
the age of 12 yrs. The patients were selected from those who were admitted with severe
malaria in Acute Medical Care Unit, Ganndhi Hospital, Secunderabad. Patients who
came with symptoms or signs of severe malaria like coma, convulsions, hypotension,
decreased urine output, anemia, jaundice, respiratory distress are assessed. Out of them
who fit the exclusion criteria are excluded.
Results: Acidosis is commonly seen with malaria and this most often high anion gap
metabolic acidosis contributed by lactic acidosis, renal failure and other anions.
Electrolyte abnormalities are common in malaria with hyponatremia, eukalemia,
hypochloremia, hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia being the commonest.
Conclusion: Finally, we conclude, Strong predictors of mortality include acidosis, high
anion gap, hyperlactatemia and hyperkalemia