Adamu I., 2

Adamu is a 2-year-old boy and the second child in his family. He lives with his parents in a modest two-room mud house. His father is a small-scale farmer, while his mother earns a little income by selling yams from home. Together, the family survives on approximately ₦7,500, which is barely enough to meet their daily needs. Despite their financial struggles, Adamu's parents work tirelessly to care for their children and provide them with a better future. When Adamu became seriously ill with severe malaria, anemia, and acute diarrhea, the family was unable to afford the urgent medical treatment he required. The illness placed a heavy emotional and financial burden on the household, leaving his parents worried about his survival. was brought to the hospital with complaints of high fever, severe weakness, frequent watery stools, poor feeding, vomiting, and excessive tiredness. His parents reported that he had become increasingly weak and less active over several days. Following clinical assessment and laboratory investigations, Adamu was diagnosed with Severe Malaria Complicated by Anemia and Acute Diarrhea. Severe malaria had caused the destruction of red blood cells, leading to anemia, which made him pale, weak, and lethargic.

Adamu was admitted as an emergency case and immediately stabilized. He received intravenous (IV) Artesunate for the treatment of severe malaria, followed by a full course of Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) once he was able to take oral medications. To correct dehydration caused by acute diarrhea, he was given intravenous fluids and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). Zinc supplements were also administered to help reduce the severity and duration of the diarrhea. Paracetamol was given to control fever and provide comfort. Due to the anemia caused by severe malaria, Adamu received iron supplements (haematinics) and nutritional support to help restore his blood level. His condition was closely monitored, including his temperature, hydration status, and response to treatment. Over the course of treatment, his fever subsided, the diarrhea stopped, his appetite improved, and he gradually regained his strength and activity level. The signs of anemia also improved with ongoing care and nutritional support. By the time of discharge, Adamu was clinically stable and recovering well. His caregivers were advised to complete all prescribed medications, maintain good nutrition and hydration, ensure proper hygiene, and attend follow-up appointments. With continued care, he is expected to make a full recovery.

Doctor’s Opinion and Prognosis Adamu was diagnosed with severe malaria complicated by anemia and acute diarrhea, a life-threatening condition that required urgent medical intervention. The severe malaria led to the destruction of red blood cells, resulting in anemia, while the acute diarrhea caused significant fluid and electrolyte loss, placing him at risk of dehydration. The prognosis is good due to the timely medical intervention and favorable response to treatment. With continued recovery, proper nutrition, completion of prescribed medications, and regular follow-up care, Adamu is expected to make a full recovery and return to normal childhood activities.