Scientists discover key malaria biomarkers

The discovery of key biomarkers in malaria patients could help doctors treat victims earlier.

Researchers presented their findings in placental and cerebral malaria at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in the US yesterday.

Toronto's McLaughlin-Rotman Centre for Global Health reported an overactive blood protein C5a had been found in women with placental malaria.

In association with other medics, it also found evidence of blood vessel regulator angiopoietins in cerebral malaria.

Both findings may help doctors spot those at-risk earlier and provide the right treatment expediently.

More than 10,000 women die of placental malaria each year, which causes up to 200,000 infant deaths.

Cerebral malaria kills between ten to 40 per cent of its victims, targeting children, adults with no immunity and travellers.

Malaria is spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes and results in fever, headache, chills and vomiting, which appear up to between ten and 15 days after infection.

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