Abstract BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a leading cause of acute febrile illness in Kenya and is associated with several complications such as cerebral malaria, thrombocytopenia, transaminitis and acute renal failure. Acute pancreatitis, one of the rarer manifestations of this illness, is seldom manifested nor diagnosed accurately. CASE PRESENTATION We present the case of a 24-year-old female who was diagnosed with malaria and later, acute pancreatitis, over the course of her hospitalization. She was initially misdiagnosed with gastritis at a peripheral facility and was later found to have malaria and started on intravenous artesunate along with supportive care. Her symptomatology of epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting observed whilst in the ward led to us suspecting a case of acute pancreatitis. Laboratory tests revealed elevated lipase and amylase levels, confirming the same. Non-contrast computed tomography scans showed an enlarged pancreas with peripancreatic fat inflammation. The patient received IV fluids, antiemetics, proton pump inhibitors and blood transfusions whilst admitted. Over the course of her hospitalization, her condition improved, and she was discharged on day 10. CONCLUSION This case emphasizes the importance of considering rare complications like acute pancreatitis in patients with malaria, especially in endemic regions. Clinicians should be aware of this potential complication and maintain a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with persistent abdominal symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea and vomiting. Early diagnosis of the same and intervention can improve patient outcomes and reduce morbidity and mortality associated with this sequela of the disease.
Satish et al. (Wed,) studied this question.