What is the Difference Between Plasmodium Falciparum and Plasmodium Vivax?

Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax are two different species of the Plasmodium parasite that cause malaria in humans. They have distinct characteristics and result in different clinical presentations and severity of the disease. Some key differences between the two species include:

1. Virulence: P. falciparum is considered the most virulent species, causing the most severe forms of malaria and potentially leading to death. P. vivax, on the other hand, is less virulent but can still cause severe complications.
2. Parasitemia: The number of parasites circulating in the blood of a person infected with P. vivax is typically lower, making it more challenging to diagnose. P. falciparum infections generally result in higher parasite density.
3. Dormant liver hypnozoites: P. vivax has a dormant liver hypnozoite form that is undetectable by current diagnostic tools.
4. Clinical presentation: P. falciparum infections often present with instant fever, while P. vivax infections may have a less pronounced fever.
5. Geographical distribution: P. falciparum is found in all continents except Europe, while P. vivax is primarily found in Asia, Latin America, and some parts of Africa.
6. Incubation period: The incubation period for P. vivax is typically 10 to 17 days but can sometimes be as long as a year when the parasite remains dormant.
7. Immunity: Acquisition of immunity to P. vivax occurs more rapidly than immunity to P. falciparum. In endemic regions, morbidity tends to peak at an earlier age in P. vivax, and adults are more often asymptomatic when infected.

In summary, while both P. falciparum and P. vivax are species of the Plasmodium parasite that cause malaria, they differ in their virulence, parasitemia, dormant liver hypnozoite forms, clinical presentation, geographical distribution, incubation period, and acquisition of immunity.

Comparative Table: Plasmodium Falciparum vs Plasmodium Vivax

Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax are two distinct species of malaria parasites that infect humans. Here is a table highlighting the key differences between them:

Plasmodium falciparum is the predominant species worldwide and causes severe malaria, while Plasmodium vivax mainly occurs outside Africa and causes milder malaria. Both species are transmitted through mosquitoes, but Plasmodium vivax can also be transmitted through blood transfusions and shared needles. Plasmodium vivax has a dormant stage (hypnozoites) in the liver, which can cause relapses.