DETERMINATION OF HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF CHILDREN THAT SUFFERED FROM ACUTE MALARIA IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a major public health issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, with children being disproportionately affected. This study investigates the haematological parameters in children suffering from acute malaria in Nigeria, focusing on parameters such as hemoglobin concentration, platelet count, and white blood cell levels. The aim is to provide insights into how these parameters are altered in pediatric patients during acute malaria episodes and how these alterations correlate with disease severity. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving children aged 1–12 years who presented with confirmed cases of acute malaria at a tertiary healthcare facility in Nigeria. Blood samples were collected, and laboratory analysis was performed to measure haematological parameters, including hemoglobin levels, platelet counts, white blood cell (WBC) counts, and reticulocyte production. These results were analyzed using statistical methods to determine correlations with malaria severity and compare the findings with existing literature. The findings revealed that anemia, characterized by reduced hemoglobin levels, was the most common haematological abnormality, affecting nearly 60% of the study population. Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) was also prevalent, with more severe malaria cases exhibiting a greater reduction in platelet numbers. Leukocyte alterations, particularly lymphopenia, were observed, further confirming the immune dysregulation associated with malaria. The study also noted significant differences in haematological parameters between children with severe and mild malaria, emphasizing the importance of these parameters as markers for disease progression. The study highlights the critical role of haematological parameters in the diagnosis and management of malaria in children. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on malaria’s impact on child health and underscore the need for enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in resource-limited settings. Additionally, the study identifies gaps in existing research, particularly regarding long-term haematological recovery and the influence of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. In conclusion, this study provides important insights into the haematological changes associated with acute malaria in Nigerian children. It underscores the need for early detection and management of haematological abnormalities to improve clinical outcomes. Recommendations include further research on long-term recovery patterns and the development of targeted treatment strategies to mitigate the haematological impacts of malaria.

 

Keywords: Acute malaria, children, haematological parameters, anemia, thrombocytopenia, Nigeria, public health.

 

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Children, especially those under the age of five, are highly susceptible to malaria infections due to their developing immune systems. In Nigeria, which accounts for a large proportion of global malaria cases, acute malaria contributes significantly to child mortality (World Malaria Report, 2018). Understanding the hematological parameters in children suffering from acute malaria provides insights into the severity of the disease and its systemic effects, as these parameters can offer crucial diagnostic information and guide treatment approaches (Godse, 2013).

 

Hematological parameters such as hemoglobin (Hb) levels, platelet count, and white blood cell (WBC) profiles are particularly useful in understanding the impact of malaria. Anemia is one of the most common complications, often resulting from the destruction of red blood cells during the infection and associated immune responses (Muwonge et al., 2013). The anemia caused by malaria is a direct result of the parasite's invasion and destruction of red blood cells, leading to reduced hemoglobin levels. Additionally, children who suffer from malaria often experience leukopenia or thrombocytopenia (Martínez-Salazar & Tobón-Castaño, 2014).

In Nigeria, malaria control programs have been implemented, but the disease burden remains high. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and environmental conditions conducive to mosquito breeding exacerbate the situation (Morakinyo et al., 2018). While various studies have highlighted the importance of hematological assessments in diagnosing and managing malaria, there is limited data specific to children in Nigeria, particularly on the relationship between malaria severity and hematological changes (Bawah et al., 2018).

The need to determine hematological changes in children suffering from malaria is essential to improving treatment outcomes. It is well-documented that children with severe malaria often display abnormal blood profiles, which can predict disease severity and complications (Das et al., 2017). Analyzing these hematological parameters in children will provide clinicians with better tools for diagnosing and managing acute malaria cases. Furthermore, it could also assist in creating targeted interventions aimed at reducing the high morbidity and mortality rates among Nigerian children.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite ongoing efforts to combat malaria, the disease remains endemic in Nigeria, affecting millions of children annually. Acute malaria continues to be a leading cause of hospitalization and death among children under five, often due to complications such as severe anemia and thrombocytopenia (Francis et al., 2014). These hematological abnormalities, if not promptly diagnosed and treated, can lead to severe complications and death. However, there is limited research focusing on the specific hematological changes in Nigerian children suffering from acute malaria, particularly in regions where malaria is hyperendemic (Conroy et al., 2019).

This study seeks to fill the gap in the literature by determining the hematological parameters of children who suffer from acute malaria in Nigeria. Understanding these changes can provide healthcare providers with critical diagnostic and prognostic information, thereby improving clinical outcomes. Moreover, the study aims to contribute to the development of better management strategies for malaria, particularly in high-risk pediatric populations.

1.3 Research Questions

1. What are the hematological parameters commonly affected in children suffering from acute malaria in Nigeria?

2. How do these hematological changes correlate with the severity of malaria in children?

3. What is the diagnostic significance of hematological parameters in managing acute malaria in Nigerian children?

1.4 Objectives of the Study

1. To identify the hematological parameters that are altered in children suffering from acute malaria in Nigeria.

2. To assess the correlation between hematological changes and the severity of malaria in these children.

3. To evaluate the diagnostic value of hematological parameters in the management of pediatric acute malaria.

1.5 Significance of the Study

The study is significant for several reasons. First, it will provide vital information on the hematological changes in children with acute malaria, contributing to the existing body of knowledge on malaria pathophysiology in Nigeria. Secondly, it will enhance the diagnostic capabilities of healthcare providers, enabling early identification of severe malaria cases and better management of the disease. Lastly, the findings will assist policymakers in refining malaria control programs, particularly in areas with high pediatric malaria incidence (Clark et al., 2006).

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on children aged 0-12 years suffering from acute malaria in selected hospitals in Nigeria. Hematological parameters such as hemoglobin levels, white blood cell counts, and platelet counts will be evaluated. However, the study may face limitations such as the availability of medical records, access to laboratory facilities, and regional variations in malaria severity. Additionally, the study will not cover biochemical parameters, which could also provide insights into malaria's systemic effects (Awoke & Arota, 2019).

1.7 Definition of Terms

Acute Malaria: A severe form of malaria characterized by high parasitemia and complications such as anemia, respiratory distress, and cerebral involvement.

Hematological Parameters: Blood components such as red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets that provide diagnostic information about health status.

Anemia: A condition where the hemoglobin level in the blood is lower than normal, often seen in children with malaria due to red blood cell destruction.

Thrombocytopenia: A reduction in platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and is common in severe malaria cases.

White Blood Cell Count: A measure of the number of white blood cells, which can be altered in malaria, leading to either leukopenia or leukocytosis.