Incidence of Plasmodium Vivax Malaria in Patients with Pancytopenia

Abstract

Background: Malaria, caused by Plasmodium vivax, is prevalent in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world, notably in South Asia and Africa. The clinical manifestation of malaria, including pancytopenia, varies widely, leading to complex challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the association between Vivax malaria and hematological abnormalities like pancytopenia is critical for improving patient outcomes in endemic regions. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the incidence of Plasmodium vivax in patients presenting with pancytopenia and to assess the demographic and hematological profiles of these patients in a high-prevalence area. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at the Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from January 2021 to January 2023. A total of 350 patients who presented at the medical outpatient department were enrolled based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Blood samples were collected using aseptic techniques, and peripheral blood smears were prepared for analysis. Demographic data were collected through questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with categorical data analyzed using Chi-square tests and continuous variables using t-tests, setting statistical significance at p < 0.05. Results: Of the 350 patients studied, 71.4% were male and 28.6% were female, with a mean age of 55.1 years. The hemoglobin levels averaged 8.86 g/dl (SD ± 1.77), and the leukocyte count was 2.84×10^3/Cmm (SD ± 3.31). Platelet counts averaged 77.25×10^9/Cmm (SD ± 2.90). Overall, 52.6% of patients tested positive for P. vivax. There were no significant differences in the incidence of P. vivax infection across age groups (p = 0.36) or between genders (p = 0.41). Conclusion: The study confirmed a significant prevalence of P. vivax in patients with pancytopenia, highlighting the need for routine screening in malaria-endemic regions. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing pancytopenia in patients with malaria and can lead to substantial improvements in clinical outcomes.