Is there a Relation between ABO Blood Group and Malaria?

Abstract

Malaria occurrence and its severity have been related to many host factors including ABO blood groups. This cross sectional study analyzes severity and prevalence of malaria in various ABO blood groups. This prospective observational study was carried out in 74 peripheral smear positive malaria patients. Blood group analysis was done in these selected patients as well as in 74 control subjects who came for voluntary blood donation. Necessary investigations and Malarial antigen test were done. Patients were clinically examined and grouped into mild, moderate and severe malaria by defined clinical criteria. Cases of P.vivax (54.05 %) were more than P.falciparum (08.10%) and mixed infection (P.vivax+P.falciparum) (37.83%). The age group which was commonly affected was 18-30 years (39.18%). Elderly patients >60 years (05.40%) were affected least. Prevalence of malaria was higher in males in comparison with females. {Males (71.62%) Vs females (28.37%)}.Malaria cases in different blood groups were 39.18% in ‘B’, 27.2% in ‘A’,22.97%, in ‘O’ and 10.81% in ‘AB’ blood groups. Prevalence of ABO blood groups was very similar in controls. Thus we did not find any selection bias of malaria in a particular blood group. Protection in regards to severity was found in ‘O’ blood group patients. No special predilection was noted in regards to blood group and malaria. ‘O’ blood group had less severe malaria cases.