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

Schizonts of P. malariae have 6-12 (usually 8-10) merozoites, often arranged in a rosette or irregular cluster.  Mature schizonts nearly fill the normal-sized host RBC.  Pigment if course and often peripheral.  Schizonts can be common in peripheral blood circulation.

Plasmodium malariae schizonts

A

A: Schizonts of P. malariae.  Figs. 14-20: Developing schizonts; Figs. 21-22: Mature schizonts.
 Illustrations from: Coatney GR, Collins WE, Warren M, Contacos PG. The Primate Malarias. Bethesda: U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare; 1971.

Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thick blood smear Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thick blood smear
B C

B, C: Schizonts of P. malariae in thick blood smears.

Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thin blood smear Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thin blood smear
D E

D, E: Schizonts of P. malariae in thin blood smears.

Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thin blood smear Plasmodium malariae schizonts in thin blood smear
F G

F, G: Schizonts of P. malariae in thin blood smears.

 
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