Which clinical presentation is characterized by irregular fever paroxysms?

Which clinical presentation is characterized by irregular fever paroxysms?

• A. Typhoid fever
• B. Meningitis
• C. Malaria
• D. Cholera

Answer: (C)

The clinical presentation of irregular fever paroxysms is most indicative of malaria. In malaria, patients typically experience fever that occurs in cycles, often described as paroxysms. These fevers can be intermittent or constantly fluctuating, depending on the Plasmodium species causing the infection. The characteristic pattern of fever can be paroxysmal, leading to episodes of intense chills, high fever, and sweating. In contrast, typhoid fever typically presents with a sustained, continuous fever rather than irregular peaks and troughs. Meningitis can also cause fever, but it is usually accompanied by other symptoms like headache, neck stiffness, and altered mental status. Cholera primarily results in watery diarrhea and is less associated with a specific fever pattern. Thus, malaria's unique intermittent fever presentation makes it the correct choice in this context.

The clinical presentation of irregular fever paroxysms is most indicative of malaria. In malaria, patients typically experience fever that occurs in cycles, often described as paroxysms. These fevers can be intermittent or constantly fluctuating, depending on the Plasmodium species causing the infection. The characteristic pattern of fever can be paroxysmal, leading to episodes of intense chills, high fever, and sweating.

In contrast, typhoid fever typically presents with a sustained, continuous fever rather than irregular peaks and troughs. Meningitis can also cause fever, but it is usually accompanied by other symptoms like headache, neck stiffness, and altered mental status. Cholera primarily results in watery diarrhea and is less associated with a specific fever pattern. Thus, malaria's unique intermittent fever presentation makes it the correct choice in this context.