Extensive dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum densities, stages and genotyping profiles

• Published in: Malaria Journal
• Main Authors: Faraja Lea, Lebbad Marianne, Färnert Anna, Rooth Ingegerd
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2008
• Subjects: Arctic medicine. Tropical medicine; RC955-962; Infectious and parasitic diseases; RC109-216; Arctic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2875-7-241; https://doaj.org/article/bfc7892f45c143228b77639e1232938d

Abstract Background Individuals living in areas of high malaria transmission often have different Plasmodium falciparum clones detected in the peripheral blood over time. The aim of this study was to assess the dynamics of asymptomatic P. falciparum infections in a few hours intervals. Methods Capillary blood samples were collected 6-hourly during five days from asymptomatic children in a highly endemic area in Tanzania. Parasite densities and maturation stages were investigated by light microscopy. Types and number of clones were analysed by PCR based genotyping of the polymorphic merozoite surface proteins 1 and 2 genes. Results: Parasite densities and maturation stages fluctuated 48-hourly with a gradual shift into more mature forms. Various genotyping patterns were observed in repeated samples over five days with only few samples with identical profiles. Up to six alleles differed in samples collected six hours apart in the same individual. Conclusion This detailed assessment highlights the extensive within-host dynamics of P. falciparum populations and the limitations of single blood samples to determine parasite densities, stages and genotyping profiles in a malaria infected individual.