Malaria: Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia may quickly lead to general deterioration and coma. It is common in children (up to 25%) and pregnant women. Glucose may be life-saving. If the glycogen store in the liver is low (malnutrition) the risk of hypoglycaemia increases [glycogen is converted to glucose = blood sugar]. The conversion of glycogen to glucose is also inhibited by certain cytokines which are released during infection with P. falciparum. [Hypoglycaemic effects of TNF-α and possibly interleukin-1 and TNF-β]. The parasites themselves also use glucose for their metabolism and contribute to the hypoglycaemia if they are present in large numbers. Quinine can stimulate the secretion of insulin from the pancreas and in this way can also contribute to hypoglycaemia.

Category: Medicine Notes