Falciparum hepatopathy: a reversible and transient involvement of liver in falciparum malaria.

Abstract

Between August 1992 and May 1997 a total of 56 patients with falciparum malaria and liver disease were seen. The serum bilirubin, mainly of conjugated variety was raised. The ALT was less than 3 times normal with a minimally raised or normal Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) and prothombin time. The liver function abnormalities were not related to grade of parasitaemia, fever, duration of the illness, nutritional status of the patient or associated medical problems. Treatment of falciparum malaria led to quick reversal of liver function tests.