Effect of malaria parasite on platelet among pregnant women in Owerri, Imo State Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria is a formidable global parasitic infection that presents a major health challenge in Tropical countries especially among pregnant women and children. It has a profound alteration or reduction effects on hematological parameters such as platelets in pregnant women. The study was carried out to determine the effects of Plasmodium falciparum on platelets of pregnant women in Owerri, Imo state Nigeria. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) blood samples of pregnant women were collected at Holy Rosary hospital Emekuku in owerri. The blood samples were screened for malaria infection using thick and thin Giemsa blood films. Results showed that 50 (33.33%) were positive for malaria parasite showing significant signs, with visible fever accompanying the infections. Normal platelet number ranges from 150 X 109/ L; 400 X 109/L. The association of hematological parameters and diagnosis of malaria infection among people living in malaria endemic areas were retrieved. The most commonly changed parameters are platelet count. Presence of thrombocytopenia in pregnant women from endemic areas was useful as supportive diagnostic criteria for malaria in cases with low levels of parasite number. Therefore, when used with other clinical and microscopy parameters, it can significantly improve malaria diagnosis and timely treatment for malaria infection.

Description

A research article with tables

Keywords

Malaria parasite, platelet, pregnant women, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, Department of Biotechnology

Citation

Allison, L . N . , Mgbemena, I . , Amadi, A . N . C . , Ezike , M . N . , Ukoma, A . A . ,& Iwu , D . O . (2017). Effect of malaria parasite on platelet among pregnant women in Owerri, Imo State Nigeria. American Journal of Clinical Research and Reviews. 1(6), 0001 - 0007