RESPONSE OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM TO CHLOROQUINE IN HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS AT SIDAMO REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The response of p.falciparum to a standard regimen of chloroquine (25 mg/kg body weight) was studied in 38 patients (27 males, 11 females) hospitalized at Sidamo regional hospital, Yirgalem, southern Ethiopia. Resistance occurred in 44.7% of the patients, 64.7% RI, 5.9% RII and 28.4% RIII. Resistance rates were highest (75%) in children below 9 years of age. Of those resistant to chloroquine all except one showed clearance of parasitemia and clinical cure after Quinine or Sulfadoxine pyreimetnamine (Fansidar). This study has confirmed the presence of chloroquine resistant strains of p.falciparum in the area. It is recommended that additional in vitro and in vivo studies should be done in order to rationalize the use of alternate drugs like Quinine more economically.