Biochemical characteristics of Malaria patients with their association with severity of disease

Abstract— Malaria is one of the oldest and most widespread disease which affects more than 2400 million people, over 40% of world's population, in more than 100 countries in tropics from South America to Indian Peninsula. This study was designed to assess the platelet counts, haematocrit & liver enzymes (Alanine transaminase, Aspartate transaminase, Alkaline phosphatase) in patients of Plasmodium vivax & Plasmodium falciparum malaria and its association with the severity and prognosis of disease. In a hospital based observational descriptive study, 100 patients with Plasmodium falciparum and/or vivax positive diagnosed by peripheral blood film examination and/or by MPQBC (Malaria Parasite Quantitative Buffy Coat) method were included and submitted to a complete clinical & laboratory evaluation. Patients who were ≤ 14 years and who refused to give consent were excluded. They were divided into Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum positive group; evaluated, compared and statistical analysis done. Out of total 100 cases of malaria positive, P. falciparum constituted 66% and P. vivax constituted 34%. The pathophysiological processes causing the haematological changes in malaria are complex and multiple. Thrombocytopenia presents with bleeding manifestations and it increases the severity of disease with poor prognosis