Precipitated Malaria: It Never Rains but It Pours

Abstract

Occasionally, Plasmodium falciparum malaria is apparently precipitated by traumatic events (e.g., a landmine accident) or by noninfectious events (e.g., pregnancy). The authors reporting such cases often seem as baffled as many of their readers probably are. However, the case reports may contain important clues regarding malaria pathogenesis and immunity.

Keywords: P. falciparum malaria; PfEMP1; acquired immunity; inflammation; pregnancy; sequestration.