Study for the PANCE Infectious Disease Test. Dive into flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

For a traveler to India where P. falciparum chloroquine resistance is present, which prophylaxis is most appropriate?

When malaria parasites in the area are resistant to chloroquine, you need a preventive drug proven effective against chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum. Chloroquine won’t work here, so it’s not a valid choice. Primaquine targets liver stages of vivax and ovale and isn’t used for falciparum prophylaxis, plus it has safety considerations in G6PD deficiency. Mefloquine is effective against chloroquine-resistant falciparum, but many travelers experience neuropsychiatric side effects, making it less favorable for routine prophylaxis. Atovaquone-proguanil works well against chloroquine-resistant falciparum, is well tolerated, and is convenient for travelers (daily dosing started before travel, continued during, and for 7 days after leaving). It provides reliable protection in this scenario, which is why it’s the best choice.

When malaria parasites in the area are resistant to chloroquine, you need a preventive drug proven effective against chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum. Chloroquine won’t work here, so it’s not a valid choice. Primaquine targets liver stages of vivax and ovale and isn’t used for falciparum prophylaxis, plus it has safety considerations in G6PD deficiency. Mefloquine is effective against chloroquine-resistant falciparum, but many travelers experience neuropsychiatric side effects, making it less favorable for routine prophylaxis. Atovaquone-proguanil works well against chloroquine-resistant falciparum, is well tolerated, and is convenient for travelers (daily dosing started before travel, continued during, and for 7 days after leaving). It provides reliable protection in this scenario, which is why it’s the best choice.