Study on the Prevalence and Immunological Interactions between Malaria and Helminthes Infections among Inpatients in Selected Hospitals in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malaria and helminthes infections are common in tropical and subtropical regions, where they frequently co-occur, and complicating disease outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and immunological interactions between malaria and helminthes infections. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 500 participants, categorized by age, sex, education level, and occupation. Health parameters, including hemoglobin levels, platelet count, white blood cell count, and eosinophil count, were measured, along with immunological parameters such as Interleukin-10 (IL-10), Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and total IgE levels. Participants were evenly distributed by sex, with 50% male and 50% female. The majority was aged 31-45 years (40%), had tertiary education (40%), and was employed (60%). Participants with co-infections had lower hemoglobin levels (10.5 g/dL) and platelet counts (170 x10^9/L) compared to those with single infections. IL-10 levels were significantly higher in co-infected individuals (Median: 120 pg/mL) compared to those with malaria only (75 pg/mL) and helminthes only (85 pg/mL). IFN-γ levels were highest in participants with malaria only (Median: 150 
pg/mL). Total IgE levels were elevated in co-infected individuals (Median: 350 IU/mL) compared to those with malaria only (200 IU/mL) and helminthes only (300 IU/mL). IL-10 levels showed significant differences between all groups (p-values < 0.01). IFN-γ levels were significantly different between malaria and helminthes infections (p-value = 0.05). Total IgE levels were significantly different across all groups (p-values < 0.01). The study highlights the complex immunological interactions in malaria and helminthes coinfections, with significant variations in IL-10 and IgE levels. These findings underscore the need for integrated control strategies to address co-infections and improve health outcomes.