Malaria due to Plasmodium ovale

Definition

A relatively mild form of malaria caused by Plasmodium ovale. The clinical manifestations (commonly appearing 12-18 days after inoculation) are similar to those of vivax malaria but the paroxysms of fever and chills are less severe. After the initial stage, paroxysms tend to occur every other day. Recovery is often spontaneous. Relapses are not unusual.

Exclusions

• when mixed with Plasmodium malariae
• when mixed with Plasmodium falciparum
• when mixed with Plasmodium vivax

Index Terms