Study of Methaemoglobin in Malaria Patients
G C Behera1, S K Behera2, R K Jena2
1Department of Medicine, V.S.S. Medical College, Burla, India.
Summary
Elevated methemoglobin (MetHb) levels in malaria patients correlate with increased disease severity and mortality. Monitoring MetHb may aid in managing malaria and reducing patient deaths.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Clinical Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Malaria is a significant global health concern, often associated with complications.
- Methemoglobin (MetHb) is an altered form of hemoglobin that can impair oxygen transport.
- The relationship between MetHb levels and malaria severity requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine MetHb concentrations in malaria patients.
- To correlate MetHb levels with the severity of malaria infection.
- To evaluate MetHb as a potential prognostic indicator in malaria.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 30 untreated malaria cases and 30 controls.
- Malaria diagnosis confirmed by Quantitative Buffy Coat (QBC) test.
- MetHb levels measured using spectrophotometry (co-oximeter) on days 1 and 10.
Main Results:
- Complicated malaria cases (n=21) presented with fever, anemia, renal failure, and coma/convulsions.
- Mean MetHb levels were significantly higher in complicated malaria patients on day 10 (10.69 ± 8.19%) compared to day 1 (2.55 ± 1.75%).
- Higher MetHb levels on days 1 and 10 were associated with increased mortality.
Conclusions:
- Increased MetHb levels are detrimental and linked to higher mortality in malaria.
- Routine MetHb estimation can serve as a prognostic indicator for malaria patients.
- Investigating drugs that reduce MetHb may help decrease malaria morbidity and mortality.
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