Role of Hemoglobin and Platelets as Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Malaria at Dhiraj Hospital, Vadodara

Abstract

Background: Malaria is caused by Plasmodium species and a disease of human which it have an effect on high morbidity and mortality. Malaria perhaps related with complications that may be missed by early diagnosis, investigations and treatment. Microscopic examination for screening the presence of malarial parasites is considered necessary for confirmation that requires technical expertise. Aims and objectives: The present study to find the changes and role of hemoglobin as well as platelet count in P. falciparum and P. vivax. Methodology: A total of 100 positive samples which were 50 P. falciparum and 50 P. vivax included. All the samples were further subjected to the detection of Hb and platelet counts by standard method. Results: The significant decrease in hemoglobin and platelet count was noted in P. falciparum than P. vivax. Out of 100 cases, 50 were P. falciparum and 50 were P. vivax and 70were males and 30 were female. Out of 50 P. falciparum,48% showed Hb less than 9 mg/dl, however,20% P. vivax showed Hb less than 9 mg/dl. The P. falciparum and P. vivax showed a platelet count of less than 1 lakh in 52% and 48% patients respectively. Conclusion: Effects on both of the Hb and platelet has seen more in P. falciparum species infection compared to P. vivax. Two tests may use to detect malaria where the rapid tests are not available and tests should correlate with peripheral blood smear. Our study highlights the level of Hb and platelet count may useful for the diagnosis of malaria and prompt initiation of the therapy.