Calvin O., 5

Calvin is an only child who lives with his father in a single-room rented house. His parents separated when he was about eight months old, leaving his father, a casual labourer with an irregular income, as his sole caregiver. During the current illness, he developed poor appetite and vomiting. While his father was away, a neighbour gave him some over-the-counter medication hoping he would improve. Instead, Calvin’s condition deteriorated and he experienced three convulsive episodes. Concerned neighbours immediately rushed him to hospital and remained until he had been received by the medical team. By the time his father arrived, Calvin had already been assessed and emergency treatment initiated in the casualty department. Following initial stabilization, his father requested that Calvin be discharged because he feared he would be unable to afford the hospital bill. However, given the recurrent seizures and need for further evaluation, Calvin was admitted to the paediatric ward for close neurological monitoring, investigations and continued treatment. A social worker was subsequently requested to assess the family’s financial circumstances and support needs.

Calvin has a guarded prognosis due to severe malaria complicated by a convulsive disorder. With prompt treatment using appropriate antimalarial medication, seizure control, supportive care, and close monitoring, the child has a good chance of recovery. However, there remains a risk of complications including recurrent seizures, neurological impairment, anemia, hypoglycemia, and, in severe cases, death. Long-term follow-up is important to monitor neurological function, seizure control, and overall recovery.