Host Haematological Indices: Potential Diagnostic Markers in Plasmodium Vivax Malaria

Abstract

Objective: 1. To identify the fluorescent signal pattens on WBC histograms in flowcytometry
based, five parts differential haematology analyzers, in smear positive cases. 2. To make a
diagnostic algorithm based on haematological parameters and WBC scattergrams in suspicious
cases of P vivax malaria.
Methods: Seventy smear positive Plasmodium vivax haematological indices on automated 5
part differential hematology analyzers (XE2100 & XE5000) were checked for seminal use as
potential diagnostic markers.
Results: Seventy smear positive Plasmodium vivax malaria cases were selected.
Haematological indices revealed that 83.4% had thrombocytopenia. Pseudoeosinophilia was
seen in 76.4% cases with 51/68 showing more than 5% gap. Considerable anaemia (Hb <10 g/dl)
was exhibited by 32.8% of the patients. Leukopenia was seen only in 11 cases. Monocytosis was
seen in 30 patients
Conclusion: CBC run on automated analyzers gives information in the form of an integrated
pattern of results. When thrombocytopenia along with raised MPV & PDW, anemia, leukopenia,
monocytosis, eosinophilia (Pseudoeosinophilia in actual), abnormalities of WBC scatter-grams,
monocytosis and altered RDW are read in collaboration lead to strong suspicion of P vivax
malaria infestation.