Intracytoplasmic Hemozoin in Severe Malaria Case
Author Information
Author(s): Romualdo Grande, Carla Boschetti
Primary Institution: Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale, Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
Hypothesis
The presence of intraleucocytic hemozoin can indicate Plasmodium falciparum infection even when malaria parasites are not detected in blood smears.
Conclusion
The detection of hemozoin in white blood cells suggests a Plasmodium falciparum infection despite negative malaria smears.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient had severe anemia with hemoglobin levels below 3 g/dL.
- No malaria parasites were found in initial blood smears.
- Intracytoplasmic inclusions consistent with hemozoin were observed in white blood cells.
- Further testing confirmed the presence of Plasmodium falciparum.
Takeaway
A girl with severe malaria didn't show the usual signs in her blood tests, but doctors found something called hemozoin that hinted she was infected.
Methodology
Blood samples were analyzed using thin films, thick smears, and polymerase chain reaction.
Participant Demographics
17-year-old girl from Togo with β-thalassemia maior.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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