Assessment of Malaria Parasitic Density Using Microscopic Techniques as a Screening Method among Paediatric Patients in Kano, Nigeria
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Abstract
Malaria is a major health concern, particularly for children in high-risk regions such as Kano, Nigeria. Precisely measuring malaria parasite levels is necessary for an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management of illness. This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of microscopy in detecting and quantifying malaria parasitaemia among paediatric patients aged 0–14 years who attended the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano. Giemsa-stained thick and thin smears were examined, and the results were compared with those of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) as a reference. Overall, 57% of the patients had low-level infections (+), 28% had moderate infections (++), and 15% had high (+++) parasite densities.Parasite density was significantly associated with age and sex (p < 0.001). The mean parasite density was higher among children aged 10–14 years (mean = 12,500/μL [95% CI: 10,200–14,800]) than among infants (mean = 3,200/μL [95% I: 2,100–4,300]). Microscopy demonstrated a sensitivity of 92%, specificity of95%, positive predictive value of 97%, and negative predictive value of 88% (κ = 0.83), indicating strong agreement with RDT. Microscopy remains a reliable, affordable, and accessible diagnostic tool in resource-limited settings, although its accuracy depends on operator skill and quality control. Strengthening microscopy training and infrastructure could enhance the diagnostic precision of paediatric malaria surveillance in Nigeria.
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