Prevalence of submicroscopic malaria parasitemia among migrant pregnant women: A prospective cohort study

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Objective</h3> This study aims to determine the prevalence of submicroscopic malaria parasitemia in a cohort of pregnant women (PW) with recent migration history. <h3>Methods</h3> PW with a recent migration history from malaria-endemic area and attending prenatal outpatient clinic were prospectively included. A <i>P. falciparum</i> detection was performed using complementary techniques (rapid diagnostic test, thick drop, and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)) on both maternal (pre and postnatal) and cord blood samples. Pathological examination of the placenta was performed. <h3>Results</h3> Maternal and umbilical blood samples were collected in 96 PW and their 106 neonates. SMP was present in 5.2% [0.76 – 9.65] of patients. PW with submicroscopic malaria parasitemia had left their endemic area more recently (p <0.05), had higher reticulocyte counts in both maternal prenatal blood (p <0.02) and cord blood (p <0.02) and had higher lactate dehydrogenase levels in cord blood (p <0.05). No impact of submicroscopic malaria parasitemia on birth weight and term of birth was detected. No placental malaria was identified <h3>Conclusion</h3> In a selected population of PW with recent migration history, submicroscopic malaria parasitemia prevalence is non negligeable and associated with maternal and cord blood laboratory abnormalities. More data are required to assess the consequences of submicroscopic malaria parasitemia on maternal and birth outcomes.