Hematological Indicators of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency in Malaria-Infected Individuals

Abstract

Introduction: Malaria, a life-threatening infectious disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, continues to be a major global health concern, particularly in regions with high transmission rates. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the hematological indicators of G6PD deficiency in individuals infected with malaria. The study utilized medical records and laboratory test results to analyze the hematological parameters and markers in individuals with confirmed malaria and G6PD deficiency. Methods: Data were collected from the laboratory unit of Mosul Teaching Hospitals in Ninevah Province, Iraq, from March 2021 to November 2022. The study population consisted of individuals diagnosed with malaria and with available G6PD deficiency test results. G6PD deficiency was determined by measuring the G6PD enzyme activity in the patient’s blood. Hematological parameters, including complete blood counts, platelet counts, and red blood cell indices, were recorded using a laboratory information system. Results: The study population exhibited a relatively low prevalence of G6PD deficiency, with no significant differences observed in age or gender distribution between individuals with and without G6PD deficiency. The distribution of malaria types did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, patients with G6PD deficiency showed a significantly higher monocyte count, indicating a potential association between G6PD deficiency and altered monocyte response during malaria infection. The clinical significance of this finding requires further investigation. Conclusion: This study sheds light on the hematological indicators of G6PD deficiency in individuals infected with malaria. The findings suggest a potential relationship between G6PD deficiency and altered monocyte response during malaria infection.