Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Tertian malaria is a form of malaria characterized by fever episodes that occur every 48 hours. It is commonly caused by Plasmodium vivax or Plasmodium ovale.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Tertian malaria results in cyclic fevers every 48 hours due to the life cycle of the parasite in red blood cells.
The causative agents are primarily Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium ovale.
Symptoms include chills, fever, sweating, and anemia due to the destruction of red blood cells.
Diagnosis often involves blood smears to identify the presence of Plasmodium parasites within erythrocytes.
Treatment typically includes antimalarial medications like chloroquine, although resistance can be an issue.
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Related terms
Plasmodium vivax: A protozoan parasite responsible for causing tertian malaria.
Plasmodium ovale: Another protozoan parasite responsible for causing tertian malaria.
Antimalarial medications: Drugs used to prevent and treat malaria infections.