Cerebral malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax in an afrodescendant adult in Colombia: case report

Abstract Background Malaria, caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus and transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, remains a global public health issue, with a high incidence in tropical and subtropical regions. Although Plasmodium falciparum is the main cause of severe cases, Plasmodium vivax can also lead to serious complications, including cerebral malaria. Case presentation This case report presents the case of a 43-year-old woman from the southwestern Pacific coast, Colombia, who developed severe neurological symptoms with an initially unclear diagnosis. A thick blood smear confirmed P. vivax infection. She was treated with intravenous artesunate and subsequently with chloroquine and primaquine, and she achieved a full recovery. Conclusions Cerebral malaria has traditionally been associated with P. falciparum, P. vivax can also cause it through mechanical and inflammatory mechanisms, with a complex pathophysiology and potentially fatal outcomes. Early treatment with parenteral artesunate and intensive supportive care is key to improving outcomes.