Laboratory findings that support a diagnosis of a malaria infection include:

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All of the above laboratory findings can support a diagnosis of malaria infection. Normochromic/normocytic anemia can indicate hemolysis caused by the destruction of infected red blood cells. Leukopenia (low white blood cell count) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) are common in acute malaria infections due to the destruction of both infected and uninfected blood cells. The presence of schizonts on a blood smear confirms the diagnosis of malaria infection.

Laboratory Findings That Support a Diagnosis of a Malaria Infection