SummaryThe schizonts of P.falciparum sequester in the small vessels and rarely circulate in blood; when found they usually signify a very severe infection. If this is not the case then it is appropriate to ask if there is a different species causing the infection. Generally these are loosely formed with variable numbers of merozoites and a single clump of pigment, they are not "neat" like the parasites of P.malariae.
Mature schizonts note the clumped brown pigment surrounded by loosely arranged merooites, some are early forms that are less well separated
A single merozoite the parasite is recognisable with just 4-5 merozoites and no pigment within a degenerate erythrocyte
Late schizonts: 16-20 late merozoites prior to release are well formed and clearly separated with obvious pigment
