Response of Falciparum Malaria in Vivo to Chloroquine in Kumasi/Ghana

Abstract

In 50 patients, who presented with malaria, the presence of Plasmodium falciparum was confirmed in thin and thick blood films. They were treated with a total dosis of 25mg/kg chloroquine base. It was noticed that in Kumasi, Ashanti Region:

1. a) there is a clear evidence of decreased sensitivity of P. talciparum 10 chloroquine,
2. b) chloroquine is still effective in the treatment of malaria and remains the drug of first choice unless there is history of allergy.

 In 30 (60.0%) patients parasitaemia cleared within 3 days. In 18(36%) patients clearance of parasitaemia was between day 4 and day 8.

1. In 2 (4%) patients there was no absolute clearance afthough there was a significant reduction of the parasitaemia (resistance of RII type).

 The mean clearance time for the 48 patienals was 3.72 1.52 days.