[Value of exchange transfusion in the treatment of severe malaria (apropos of 5 cases)].

Five imported falciparum malaria cases with severe evolution are reported. Treatment associated a blood exchange transfusion and an antimalaria chemotherapy (mefloquine in three patients and quinine in two patients). All patients were successfully cured despite of serious visceral complications occurring in two patients (pulmonary and cerebral oedema). Technical management of treatment is detailed. Exchange transfusion should be considered in falciparum malaria when parasitaemia overcomes 20% and when serious visceral impairment, hemolysis or consumption coagulopathy are occurring.