Malaria is one of the most common infectious diseases across the globe and one of the most momentous tasks faced by public health systems in most developing countries. According to the latest World Malaria report, by the World Health Organization (WHO) there were 247 million cases of malaria in 2021 as compared to 245 million cases in 2020. The increase in the number of cases is not only troubling but also alarming. While some cases show mild symptoms, some could end in an individual’s death. The same study also revealed that the estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 6,19,000 in 2021.
Having said that, in grave conditions, malaria could also lead to multi-organ dysfunction. Although not related to the type of malaria acquired, the disease can cause overall discomfort to the body and organs in the lungs, kidneys, and brain. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a known complication of malaria and could occur in around 40% of patients with severe disease. AKI caused due to malaria damages the kidneys leading to immune dysregulation and subsequent inflammation alongside other major physical and mental discomforts.
