FREQUENCY OF THROMBOCYTOPENIA IN CONFIRMED CASES OF MALARIA IN CHILDREN

Thrombocytopenia in childhood malaria

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of thrombocytopenia in confirmed cases of malaria in children

Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Pediatric Department of Mayo Hospital Lahore from January to June 2018. A total of 80 Children between two years- 12 years of age, of both the genders with confirmed malaria were included by non-probability consecutive sampling. A blood sample was taken within 48 hours of admission and their complete blood count was reviewed for the presence of thrombocytopenia after malaria was confirmed on positive peripheral smear. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count of less than 150,000/µl of blood. All collected data was entered and analyzed in SPSS version 22. Data was stratified for age and gender to address effect modifiers. Presence of thrombocytopenia was presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results:  Out of total 80 patients with positive malarial parasite (MP) slide, 65 cases (81.25%)were of Plasmodium Vivax,12(15%) were of Plasmodium Falciparum while 3 cases (3.75%) were of Mixed infection. 44 patients( 55%)were having low platelet count (less than 150,000/µl) while 36 patients(45%) had no thrombocytopenia. Out of 44 patients with thrombocytopenia, 16 patients (20%) had mild thrombocytopenia, 21 patients (26.3%) had moderate thrombocytopenia while 7 patients (8.8%) had severe thrombocytopenia. There was no significant association of thrombocytopenia with age, gender or duration of malaria. 

Conclusions: Frequency of thrombocytopenia in confirmed cases of malaria in children is 55% hence; presence of thrombocytopenia in febrile patients can raise the possibility of malaria leading to early diagnosis and management.