Effects of Falciparum Malaria Infection on Some Hematological Indices and Renal functions

Abstract

Parameters including some haematological and renal function indices were evaluated in 30 middle aged patients hospitalised for Plasmodium falciparum falciparum malaria at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri. Also 30 apparently healthy age-matched controls were evaluated for the same parameters. Haematological parameters including haemoglobin (Hb) level, total WBC, differential leucocyte and platelet counts were performed using appropriate techniques. Blood urea was estimated using Diacetylmonoxime method and creatinine level was determined using alkaline picrate (Jaffe's reaction). The mean blood urea and creatinine values of P. falciparum malaria patients were significantly high (P<0.05) when compared with the mean values of the same parameters in controls. Haematological parameters evaluated showed significantly decreased mean Hb levels, total WBC, lymphocytes and platelet counts in patients with P. falciparum malaria. Such decreases were not recorded in controls. The mean neutrophil and monocyte counts in the subjects were not significantly different. Decreases in the renal functions and haematological indices were associated with P. falciparum malaria especially in severe cases.



Keywords: Haematological, Renal Functions, Falciparum Malaria.

Journal of Medical Laboratory Sciences Vol. 14 (1) 2005: pp. 6-10