Impact of Neutropenia on the Effectiveness of Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy in Pregnant Women in Mali
By
Moussa Djimde
Charles Arama
Hamadoun Diakité
Mohamed Keita
Bouréma Koné
Bréhima Tembely
Mamadou D. Samaké
Balla Bagayoko
Mohamed B. Traoré
Japhet Kabalu Tshiongo
Noluthando Ntlapo
Alassane Dicko
Michel Vaillant
Petra F. Mens
Henk D. F. H. Schallig
Kassoum Kayentao
January 27, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Impact of Neutropenia on the Effectiveness of Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy in Pregnant Women in Mali
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Malaria during pregnancy Key Mechanisms Reduced immunity in pregnant women increases vulnerability to malaria infection and complications such as anaemia and low birth weight. Target Population Pregnant women with microscopically confirmed Plasmodium falciparum infection in Mali. Care Setting Community health centers in San Health District, Mali.
Key Highlights
Malaria in pregnancy significantly increases maternal and infant mortality risks. Neutropenia may affect the efficacy of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). The study evaluates three ACTs: artemether-lumefantrine, dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine, and pyronaridine-artesunate. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Microscopic confirmation of Plasmodium falciparum infection. Management
Intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) and use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). Treatment of clinical malaria with ACTs. Monitoring & Follow-up
Regular follow-up on treatment response and neutrophil dynamics. Risks
Increased risk of anaemia and low birth weight associated with malaria during pregnancy. Patient & Prescribing Data
Pregnant women aged 15 years and older, with gestational age ≥ 16 weeks and < 37 weeks.
ACTs administered based on weight and specific regimens for each drug.
Clinical Best Practices
Ensure adherence to study requirements and informed consent. Monitor for complications such as anaemia and low birth weight in treated patients. References
