Pathogenesis and Histopathology of Malaria

Histopathological Changes in Different Organs

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium species, transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Understanding the pathogenesis and histopathological impact of malaria on various organs is crucial for its diagnosis and management.

Pathogenesis

The Plasmodium parasite undergoes a complex lifecycle involving human and mosquito hosts. Once introduced into the bloodstream, it invades hepatocytes, replicates, and eventually infects red blood cells (RBCs). This leads to hemolysis, systemic inflammation, and sequestration of infected RBCs in microvasculature.

Histopathological Changes in Different Organs

Brain (Cerebral Malaria)

• Microvascular occlusion due to infected RBC sequestration
• Vascular congestion and hemorrhage
• Ring hemorrhages and neuronal damage

Liver

• Hepatocyte necrosis and fatty changes
• Kupffer cell hyperplasia
• Parasitized RBC accumulation

Spleen

• Splenomegaly due to RBC clearance
• Congestion and hyperplasia of macrophages
• Fibrosis in chronic infections

Kidney

• Glomerular damage leading to proteinuria
• Acute tubular necrosis
• Immune-complex deposition

Conclusion

Histopathological examination plays a vital role in understanding malaria’s impact on different organs. Severe cases require immediate medical intervention to prevent fatal complications.