Cerebral malaria: Players in the pathogenic mechanism and treatment strategies

Abstract

Cerebral malaria (CM) is a major life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium falciparum infection in humans. The complex pathogenic mechanisms underlying the fatal neurological complications of the disease are still not completely elucidated. The autopsy studies in fatal cases of human CM and advances in knowledge from various animal models have offered insight into the precise mechanism of the disease. The parasite sequestration in the brain microvascular endothelial cells and dysregulated host immune system together determine the pathophysiology of CM. Despite optimal treatment with antimalarials, 25% of the patients suffer from post-treatment neurological and cognitive deficits. In this review, we have discussed the components of the pathogenic mechanisms of CM and the current scenario of treatment.