Association Between Plasmodium Infection and Blood Count Values: Implications for Malaria Diagnosis in Resource-Limited Settings

Abstract

Purpose

Malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), contributing substantially to mortality and morbidity rates. In resource-limited settings, access to specialized diagnostic tests is often restricted, making basic blood analysis a valuable diagnostic tool. This study investigated the correlation between malaria infection and full blood count values in a rural region of Ghana during the 2022 rainy season, aiming to highlight diagnostic insights available from routine blood analyses.

Methods

A retrospective case-control analysis was conducted on 544 confirmed malaria cases, comparing their blood values with those of matched malaria-negative controls.

Results

Parasitaemia levels peaked during the rainy season, with July showing the highest values. Malaria-positive patients exhibited lower levels of haemoglobin, white blood cells, lymphocytes, and platelets, but higher neutrophil counts compared to controls. Middle-aged women had significantly lower haemoglobin levels than men, and younger individuals showed higher parasitaemia levels. A negative correlation was found between Plasmodium density and haemoglobin and platelet counts, while positive correlations were observed with white blood cell and neutrophil counts.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant burden of malaria in rural Ghana during the rainy season and underscores the impact of infection on blood values. Routine full blood count analysis provides a practical and accessible diagnostic tool in resource-limited settings. The findings emphasise the importance of targeted interventions for high-risk groups, particularly children and women, to improve patient management and reduce malaria-related morbidity.

Graphical Abstract