30th April 2024

A 35-year-old man, recently returned from a month-long camping trip in Ghana, presents with fever, chills, and severe headaches.

A 35-year-old man, recently returned from a month-long camping trip in Ghana, presents with fever, chills, and severe headaches. He reports having intermittent fever spikes, mostly occurring in the evenings. He also mentions experiencing profuse sweating and fatigue. On examination, he appears pale and has a fever of 38.5°C. There’s no rash or lymphadenopathy.

Investigations:

Temperature: 38.5°C

BP: 120/80 mmHg

Physical examination: No significant findings, apart from pallor

Which investigation is most appropriate for confirming the diagnosis?