Richard Idro

Abstract Neurologic sequelae occur after cerebral malaria (CM) but are less well described after non-cerebral severe malaria (NCSM). In a prospective cohort study, we determined the presence, type and outcomes of neurologic sequelae (persistent neurologic deficits and/or development of epilepsy over 12-month follow-up) in Ugandan children admitted with CM (n = 54) or NCSM (severe malarial anemia, respiratory distress, malaria with multiple seizures, or prostration, n = 495).

We note the correspondence from A W D Edridge and colleagues regarding our study1 of doxycycline for the treatment of nodding syndrome. Their concern is around a causal link between Oncocherca volvulus, cross-reacting autoantibodies, and nodding syndrome. We agree that our findings do not provide conclusive evidence of the cause; however, they further support the involvement of O volvulus in the pathogenesis of nodding syndrome.

37 References Related Articles Abstract Background Children who have been hospitalized with severe anemia in areas of Africa in which malaria is endemic have a high risk of readmission and death within 6 months after discharge. No prevention strategy specifically addresses this period.