Pattern of serum high density lipoprotein distribution in a malaria endemic Population: A study in Enugu

Abstract

Aim: To characterize the effect of malaria infection on serum HDL levels with respect to age and sex distribution in an endemic population. Patients and Methods: A total of sixty subjects within the age range of 10 to 60 years were selected by stratified random sampling from patients attending the general out-patient department of a district hospital in Enugu. Serum HDL fractions were determined in both malaria patients and healthy control subjects. Data obtained was statistically analyzed using ANOVA, assuming P<0.05 as significant and presented in tabular form. Results: The study revealed a consistent age-related decline in serum HDL values in both malaria patients and control. However, the mean HDL values were noted to be significantly elevated in malaria patients relative to control, (P<0.05). Conclusion: The serum HDL fraction may be implicated in the pathogenesis of malaria infection especially in the disease endemic zones.

Keywords

• age-related
• distribution
• endemic population
• high density lipoprotein
• malaria infection