Background: Malaria, caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is a life-threatening disease often associated with hematological abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia is a common complication, but its consistency as a diagnostic marker in specific populations like Sudan requires further investigation. This study aimed to compare platelet counts between P. falciparum-infected and uninfected individuals in Shendi, Sudan.

Methods: A hospital-based case-control study was conducted in March 2015, involving 100 participants (50 confirmed P. falciparum patients and 50 healthy controls). Malaria diagnosis was confirmed by microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood films. Platelet counts were determined using an automated hematology analyzer (Sysmex). Data were analyzed using SPSS, with a p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean platelet count was significantly lower in the P. falciparum-infected group (142.7 × 10³/µL) compared to the control group (281.8 × 10³/µL) (p < 0.001). Within the patient group, males had a lower mean platelet count (128.7 × 10³/µL) than females (150.7 × 10³/µL).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a strong association between P. falciparum malaria and thrombocytopenia in the study population. Platelet count evaluation, which is rapid and cost-effective, could serve as a valuable supportive diagnostic tool for malaria in resource-limited settings like Sudan, potentially aiding in early suspicion and diagnosis.