Week 7: Malaria
Where is malaria endemic?
Sub-Saharan Africa
What is the most common chronic condition affecting Australian children?
Asthma & Atopy
What are the typical features of squamous cell carcinoma?
1. Scaly, Crusted, Ulcerated Lesion
2. Erythematous Base
3. Often on Sun-Exposed Areas
Which plasmodium species causes fever spikes every 72 hours?
Plasmodium malariae
In an adult, atopic dermatitis will most likely present on which part of the body?
The flexor surfaces of elbows/knees
What are the typical features of basal cell carcinoma?
1. Pearly, Translucent Nodule
2. Prominent Telangiectatic Vessels
3. Often On Sun-Exposed Areas
Which form of plasmodium is dormant and causes reactivation malaria?
Hyponozoite Stage of P. vivax and P. ovale
A defect in which gene may predispose an individual to atopic dermatitis?
FLG (Filaggrin Gene --> Maintains Barrier Function of Skin & Inhibits Penetration of Bacteria & Irritants)
1. Superficial Spreading (Most Common)
2. Nodular Melanoma (Second Most Common)
3. Lentigo Maligna Melanoma
4. Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
Muddy brown casts on urinalysis in the setting of malaria suggest infection with which plasmodium species?
Plasmodium falciparum
Define "Atopy"
Atopy refers to a genetic predisposition to develop allergic diseases, characterised by exaggerated type 1 hypersensitivity reactions mediated via immunoglobulin E (IgE)
Condition X is a precancerous condition that can progress to a squamous cell carcinoma. Name condition X
Actinic keratosis
What lab abnormalities are expected in malaria?
2. Hepatic Dysfunction (Thrombocytopenia & Hypoglycaemia)
Define "Allergy"
An allergy is a dysregulated immune response to a normally "harmless" susbtance, called an allergen, leading to various symptoms
Which subtype of melanoma has the worst prognosis? Explain why.
Nodular melanoma due to its characteristic aggressive vertical growth and increased risk of metastasis