Diagnostic Findings [Last Modified: ]
Malaria
[Plasmodium falciparum] [Plasmodium knowlesi] [Plasmodium malariae] [Plasmodium ovale] [Plasmodium vivax]
Causal Agent Life Cycle Geographic Distribution Clinical Features Laboratory Diagnosis Treatment

Developing trophozoites of P. falciparum tend to remain in ring form, but may become thicker and more compact.  The amount of pigment and chromatin may also increase.  Compact or amoeboid forms may be seen in smears where there was a delay in processing the blood.

Plasmodium falciparum developing trophozoites

A

A: Developing trophozoites of P. falciparum.  Figs. 11-18: Increasingly mature trophozoites
Illustrations from: Coatney GR, Collins WE, Warren M, Contacos PG. The Primate Malarias. Bethesda: U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare; 1971.

Plasmodium falciparum trophozoites in thick blood smear Plasmodium falciparum trophozoite in thin blood smear
B C

B: Trophozoites of P. falciparum in a thick blood smear.
C: Trophozoite of P. falciparum in a thin blood smear.

Plasmodium falciparum trophozoites in thin blood smear Plasmodium falciparum trophozoites in thin blood smear
D E

D, E: Trophozoites of P. falciparum  in thin blood smears.

 
Back Top