Electrolyte imbalance and mineral disturbances are common clinical manifestations in several infectious diseases.

A recent study published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health analyzed electrolytes levels – Na, K, Ca and Mg, in malarial patients and healthy individuals.

In this study, patients were categorized based on causative species of Plasmodium, into two groups – P. falciparum and P. vivax. The study consisted of 173 individuals, out of which 73 were malarial patients and 100 were normal healthy individuals. 

The findings revealed that concentrations of Na, K and Ca were low in the blood of malarial patients as compared to healthy individuals. There was no significant difference for these electrolytes between P. falciparum and P. vivax infected groups.While the concentration of Mg was changed based on the type of parasite. In patients with P. falciparum infection, the level of Mg was lower than in healthy individuals. Whereas, in those with P. vivax infection, Mg level was higher than in healthy individuals. However, no variation was observed in electrolytes levels due to gender differences.

In inference, it was stated that variation in Mg levels occurs due to the exposure to Plasmodium, depending on its type. Meanwhile, levels of Na, K and Ca changes due to Plasmodium, regardless of its type. Mineral supplementation may help in preventing disease severity in malaria.

Source: Iranian Journal of Public Health. 2015 Nov; 44(11): 1492–1497.