Serum C-reactive protein and cholesterol as predictors of severity in childhood Falciparum malaria infestation among Nigerians
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Date
2012
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Faculty Board of Pathology, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria
Abstract
Background: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a highly sensitive marker of acute inflammation and has been observed to rise significantly during malaria infections. It is valuable both diagnostically and epidemiologically. In contrast, red cell cholesterol, though not affecting membrane function, may impede malaria invasion. Traditional methods of grading malaria severity using parasite count have limitations, necessitating alternative indicators.
Materials and Methods: The study involved 120 pediatric patients with acute malaria, categorized into mild, moderate, and severe groups (40 each). CRP and cholesterol levels were measured and correlated with malaria parasite count and severity.
Results: Mean ages for the mild, moderate, and severe groups were 10.3, 7.1, and 3.8 years, respectively. CRP levels increased significantly, while cholesterol levels decreased with increasing malaria severity. CRP positively correlated with parasite count and scoring, while cholesterol showed a negative correlation.
Conclusion: Serum CRP is a reliable indicator of malaria severity. Cholesterol also serves as a potential severity marker, although less prominently. These markers may aid diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of falciparum malaria.
Description
Keywords
• Falciparum malaria, • Parasite scoring, • Parasite density, CRP, Cholesterol
Citation
Biliaminu, S.A., Shittu, A.O., Olatunbosun, L.O., Abdulazeez, I.M., Sani, M.A., Okesina, A.B., Akande, A.A., Omokanye, K.O., & Ojulari, L.S. (2012). Serum C-reactive protein and cholesterol as predictors of severity in childhood Falciparum malaria infestation among Nigerians. Annals of Tropical Pathology, 3 (2), 91-96,