Publication:

Complication profile of scrub typhus and its association with total leucocyte count

Background Recent reports from several parts of India indicate that there is a resurgence of scrub typhus. There have been a few studies analysing the association of various complications of scrub typhus with leukocyte count. The objective of this study was to study the association of various complications of scrub typhus with leukocyte count in children.

Methods A prospective study done at SPMCHI, SMS Medical College, Jaipur from August 2014 to November 2014. 75 Scrub typhus positive children were included in the study group. A detailed history of signs, symptoms, complications, demographic background was taken and relevant laboratory investigations done. The association between the complications of scrub and the total leukocyte count was studied, statistical analysis was done using Chi Square test.

Results Meningoencephalitis was most commonly seen complication in 14.7% followed by ARDS (9.3%), hepatitis (8%), AKI (6.7%), shock (6.7%) and myocarditis (1.3%). Meningoencephalitis and acute renal failure were more frequent among Scrub Typhus cases with leucopenia (p = 0.006, P = 0.011 respectively). It was observed that hepatitis was more frequent with leukocytosis, but was not statistically significant.

Conclusions Our study revealed that leukopenia has a significant association with meningoencephalitis and acute kidney injury.