Understand the mechanisms of malaria: an important mechanism in human immunity

2024-09-12 06:58:48

Fever is one of the most common natural responses we experience when facing infections or illnesses. Although for many it is an uncomfortable experience, fever is a basic process of the immune system.

What is fever?

A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature, usually above 37.5°C, that occurs in response to various threats to the body. This increase is controlled by the hypothalamus, a system in the brain that acts as the body’s “thermostat.” Although fever is often seen as a symptom of illness, it is an important tool for the body to fight infection.

Clinical Procedures After Malaria

The process that leads to the development of malaria is complex and is mediated by many organs and systems in the body.

1. Presence of Pyrogen

The body responds to the presence of foreign substances, such as viruses, bacteria or toxins, by releasing them pyrogenic. These can be:

• Exogenous pyrogensSubstances from the outside, such as products released by pathogens (for example, bacterial lipopolysaccharides).
• Endogenous pyrogens: Things that the body does by itself, such as the cytokines. These viruses, viz interleukin-1 (IL-1) and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)is secreted by immune cells in response to infection or inflammation.

2. Role of the Hypothalamus

Pyrogens, especially cytokines, act on the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus responds by increasing the set point of body temperature. This change causes the body to adopt mechanisms to raise its temperature, which include:

• Vasoconstriction: Blood vessels in the skin narrow, reducing heat loss.
• Shaking: The body generates heat through abnormal muscle contractions.
• Increase productivity: Muscles produce more energy and, therefore, heat.

These responses, controlled by the autonomic nervous system, lead to an increase in body temperature known as fever.

The benefits of malaria

Although fever can be annoying, its health benefits are considerable:

• Inhibition of bacterial growth: Many bacteria and viruses cannot survive or reproduce well at high temperatures. Increasing body temperature can reduce their ability to multiply.
• Enhancement of the immune system: Fever improves the mobility and effectiveness of leukocytes (white blood cells), which are important for identifying and destroying viruses. In addition, it increases the production of proteins called the interferonswhich helps cells fight viral infections.
• Acceleration of tissue repair: By increasing the temperature, the speed of chemical reactions in the body increases, which can speed up the healing process.

Malaria Process: When Is It a Problem?

Although fever is generally beneficial, it can become a problem when the body temperature reaches higher levels, above 40°C. This type of fever can cause dehydration, seizures, and organ damage. In these cases, it is important to intervene with measures to reduce the temperature, such as antipyretic drugs (eg paracetamol or ibuprofen) or hot water baths.

In addition, a fever that lasts for more than three days, without an obvious reason, should be investigated by a doctor, because it may be a sign of a serious underlying infection or autoimmune disorder.

When to consult a doctor?

• High fever (more than 40 °C) or persistent.
• Fever in children under three months.
• A fever is accompanied by severe symptoms such as a severe headache, difficulty breathing, stiff neck, rash, or confusion.