Haematological Profiles in Children with Enteric Parasitic Infections from Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Enteric parasitic infections remain a major cause of disease and malnutrition in many developing countries, including Kenya, where high prevalence is driven by poverty, limited access to safe drinking water, poor sanitation and hygiene, inadequate waste disposal, and overcrowding. Although some studies have evaluated selected blood parameters, comprehensive assessment of full haematological indices remains limited. Aims: This study assessed the association between enteric parasitic infections and haematological indices among children. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Kiandutu Health Centre and Thika Level 5 Hospital among children aged ≤10 years between July 2021 and December 2021. Methodology: Stool samples were examined using formal-ether concentration and Modified Ziehl–Neelsen staining techniques, and total blood counts were determined using an automated haematology analyser. The data were analysed using two-sample t-tests and multiple linear regression. Results: Ten protozoan and helminth species were identified, with an overall parasite prevalence of 36.7%, higher at Kiandutu Health Centre (45.8%) than Thika Level 5 Hospital (23.2%). Protozoa predominated, with Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii and Giardia lamblia being the most common, while Hymenolepis nana was the most frequent helminth. Infections with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii, Entamoeba coli, and G. lamblia were associated with reduced monocyte counts, whereas Trichuris trichiura and H. nana were also associated with elevated eosinophils. Ascaris lumbricoides infection was associated with reduced haemoglobin, haematocrit, red cell indices, and platelets. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that even predominantly protozoal and low-intensity helminth infections seem to be associated with measurable systemic haematological effects, underscoring the need for routine haematological monitoring, periodic deworming, improved sanitation, and prompt treatment to reduce morbidity among children.