Incidental detection of malaria parasite in automated hematology 6-Differential analyzer

Abstract

India has been facing the problem of malaria for centuries. Peripheral smear microscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis; however, it is a tedious process and requires qualified staff. Flow cytometric-based hematology analyzers' scattergrams can be of vital use in identifying the abnormal scattergrams for malaria. We report a patient with fever and chills who presented to the outpatient department and was further evaluated for pyrexia of unknown origin. 6-Diff complete blood count analyzer incidentally showed abnormal scattergram which was evaluated by a pathologist and confirmed the presence of Plasmodium vivax. The accuracy in detection of malaria diagnosis can vary based on species, parasite load, immunity, and clinical context. Pathologist and technical staff should analyze any abnormal scattergram and hematological data along with peripheral smear to identify the parasites.