Publication:

Effect of dengue fever on serum aminotransferases in children

Background Dengue infection is associated with liver dysfunction, which tends to become severe with severe dengue. In the acute phase of the disease, an increase occurs in aminotransferases, the levels of which subsequently decrease as the liver function recovers. Significant rise of liver enzymes helps in recognition of severe forms of dengue infection.

Methods The study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics of Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore from January 2015 to June 2015. 50 patients of 1-14 years age group, who presented with fever of recent duration and serologically positive for dengue, were included in the study.

Results 38% (19) were females and 62% (31) were males. NS1 was positive in 48% (24) and IgM was positive in 52% (26) of patients. IgG was negative in all the patients. AST was raised in 36% (18) of patients, ALT was raised in 34% (17) patients and ALP raised in 42% (21) patients. AST (Mean ± SD 53.84±43.32) was raised more than ALT (Mean ± SD 48.76±41.11)

Conclusions Liver enzymes were mildly elevated in patients with dengue fever in the initial stage of illness. AST was elevated more than ALT.