NCT05711485 · Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Platelet-Directed Whole Blood Transfusion Strategy for Malaria
(PLATFORM)
What this study is about
where both patients and doctors know the treatment given randomly assigned controlled trial to test the effectiveness of whole blood transfusion for improving survival in children with severe malaria complicated by thrombocytopenia.
View original scientific description
Open-label randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of whole blood transfusion for improving survival in children with severe malaria complicated by thrombocytopenia.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age \<5 years
- Platelet count ≤75,000/uL
- Hemoglobin \>5 and ≤9 g/dL
- P. falciparum parasitemia ≥500 parasites/uL
- Diagnosis of severe malaria meeting World Health Organization (WHO) criteria
- Ability and willingness of the legal guardian to comply with study protocol for the duration of the study
- Residence within health clinic catchment area
- Signed informed consent obtained from the parent or legal guardian of the participant
Exclusion criteria
- Residence in foster care or children otherwise under government supervision
- Residence outside the hospital catchment area, or plan to leave the area
- Presence of any other condition or abnormality which, in the opinion of the investigator, would compromise the safety of the participant or the quality of the data
- Any contraindication to whole blood transfusion
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations