Haematemesis: an uncommon presenting symptom of Plasmodium falciparum malaria

J Clin Diagn Res. 2013 May;7(5):917-8. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2013/4766.2975. Epub 2013 May 1.

Abstract

Plasmodium falciparum malaria with complications is a challenge for the clinicians worldwide, especially when it presents with rare manifestations. Haematological abnormalities and coagulopathy are the well documented complications in malaria. Rarely does malaria present with bleeding. We are reporting a 20 years old man who presented with haematemesis as the presenting symptom of falciparum malaria. In the review of literature, there are reports of haematemesis in malaria, but none of it as a presenting symptom.

Keywords: Coagulopathy; Haematemesis; Plasmodium falciparum malaria; Thrombocytopaenia.