skip to main content

Malaria — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardInfectious diseases and immunisationMalariaRACP Paediatrics

A 12-year-old returns from Papua New Guinea with fever, headache and vomiting. He is pale, mildly jaundiced and thrombocytopenic. The family report inconsistent malaria prophylaxis. What is the most appropriate investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Urgent malaria thick and thin blood films with rapid antigen testing

Fever after travel to a malaria-endemic region requires urgent malaria testing because delayed diagnosis can be fatal. Thrombocytopenia and jaundice increase concern for malaria but are not specific. Dengue and other infections may be considered, but malaria must be excluded promptly.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG); Australian travel medicine guidance