Congenital malaria (m. congenita) is a form of malaria that is transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. This occurs when the mother is infected with malaria during pregnancy. Malaria parasites (most often Plasmodium falciparum or P. vivax) are transmitted through the placenta from mother to fetus.
Symptoms of congenital malaria usually appear during the first months of an infant's life. This may include fever, weakness, pallor, jaundice, and enlarged liver and spleen. Congenital malaria can lead to serious complications such as anemia, seizures, developmental delays and even death of the child.
Diagnosis of congenital malaria is based on the detection of malaria parasites in the child's blood. Treatment involves the use of effective antimalarial drugs. The most commonly used combination is artemisinin.
Prevention of congenital malaria involves the use of chemoprophylaxis and the use of mosquito nets in pregnant women in endemic areas. Timely detection and treatment of malaria in pregnant women is also important. Compliance with these measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing congenital malaria and severe complications in a child.