Does complicated malaria cause splenomegally , tip hepatomegally , ascites , decreased air entry in the lower lung bilaterally. Explain their pathophysiology for each of the above manifestations
Complicated malaria can indeed cause splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, ascites, and decreased air entry in the lower lungs bilaterally.
1. Splenomegaly: The spleen is an important organ in the immune response against malaria. During a malaria infection, the spleen can become enlarged as it works to remove infected red blood cells from circulation. This leads to an increase in the size of the spleen, known as splenomegaly.
2. Hepatomegaly: Like the spleen, the liver is also involved in the immune response against malaria. As the liver works to process and remove the parasites from the bloodstream, it can become enlarged, leading to hepatomegaly.
3. Ascites: Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. In complicated malaria, inflammation and dysfunction of the liver can lead to a decrease in the production of proteins such as albumin. This can result in a decrease in the oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, causing fluid to leak into the abdominal cavity and leading to ascites.
4. Decreased air entry in the lower lung bilaterally: Complicated malaria can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe lung condition that can cause fluid buildup in the lungs. This can result in decreased air entry into the lower lungs bilaterally and can lead to respiratory distress and hypoxia.
In summary, the pathophysiology of these manifestations in complicated malaria involves the immune response against the parasite, inflammation and dysfunction of the liver, and complications such as ARDS leading to fluid buildup in the lungs.