EXPERIMENTAL MALARIA IN MAN. I. PHYSICAL DETERIORATION AND RECOVERY 1

Abstract

Physical performance capacity was measured in 12 young men before and at intervals after 193 degree-hours of temp. above 101[degree]F produced by induced vivax malaria. Blood hemoglobin concn. which was reduced 3.3 g. per 100 cc. of blood (plasma volume was not changed) returned to normal in about 4 weeks after the malaria. The pulse rate response to a moderate work task was increased 21% and did not reach the pre-malaria values for 3 weeks. Maximal O2 intake was reduced 18.9% and along with the Harvard Fitness Test score was not normal until after 6-8 weeks. Blood lactate concn. both at rest and following severe work was increased (50 and 100% respectively) but the blood pyruvate was increased (46%) only after severe work. Cardiovascular stability as measured by the tilt-table deteriorated 50%. The excretion of 12 ketosteroids was depressed.