Perturbations in Electrolyte Levels in Kenyan Children with Severe Malaria Complicated by Acidosis

BACKGROUND: To date, information about the frequency of electrolyte disturbances among children with severe falciparum malaria is limited. METHODS: We describe changes in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate levels in 56 Kenyan children (42 who survived and 14 who died) admitted to the hospital with clinical features of severe malaria (impaired consciousness or deep breathing) complicated by acidosis (base deficit, >8 mmol/L). RESULTS: Mild-to-moderate hypercalcemia was common at admission, particularly among children with severe anemia. Severe hyperkalemia complicated falciparum malaria in 9 children (16%), of whom 7 (78%) died, generally soon after admission. Hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypophosphatemia were uncommon (30% of children within 24 h. Hypocalcemia was infrequent (