In such a situation, malaria will compound the problem. Anemia may even be the presenting feature of malaria and therefore all cases of anemia should be tested for M.P. Anemia as a presenting feature is more common in partially immune multigravidae living in hyperendemic areas. Enlargement of the spleen may be variable. It may be absent or small in 2 nd half of pregnancy. A preexisting enlarged spleen may regress in size in pregnancy.
Complications tend to be more common and more severe in pregnancy.
A patient may present with complications of malaria or they may develop suddenly. Acute pulmonary edema, hypoglycemia and anemia are more common in pregnancy. Malaria can cause or aggravate anemia. Hemolysis of parasitised red blood cells. Increased demands of pregnancy.