Atypical pulmonary malaria.

Three atypical cases of pulmonary malaria are presented and discussed. Radiologically, they were manifested by very subtle thickening of interlobular septae or by more overt interstitial edema and pleural effusion. They were all relatively mild and cleared completely on antimalarial drugs. This is in contrast to most reported cases which were severe and fatal. This resultant widening of the clinical and radiologic spectrum of pulmonary malaria leads to the conclusion that such a complication is likely more common than previously recognized. The radiologist can suggest the correct diagnosis by being aware of its many manifestations and by having a high index of suspicion.