Publication:

Spectrum of ocular manifestations and its correlation to platelet count in dengue patients

Background Dengue is most prevalent mosquito borne viral disease. Evaluation of various ocular manifestations of dengue fever and its associated laboratory investigations were done.

Methods A cross sectional observational study was conducted on dengue patients from September 2021 to November 2021. A total 56 diagnosed patients of dengue were included in our study with age ranging between 8-70 years. A detailed systemic history followed by ocular examination including best corrected visual acuity with Snellen’s chart for both near and distance, slit lamp bio-microscopy and dilated fundus examination was carried out.

Results Out of 56 patients 50 patients (89.3%) had ocular findings: subconjunctival haemorrhage 26 cases (46.4%), retinal haemorrhages-15 cases (26.8%), cotton wool spots-9 cases (16.1%). On serological examination 39 cases (69.6%) were positive for NS1 Ig-M and 26 cases (46.4%) were positive for NS1-Ig G. Mean haemoglobin was 8.97%.

Conclusions Due to the surge in severity of ocular involvement it becomes imperative that the treating physician should be aware regarding the ocular manifestations. Thus, timely reference of the patient to an ophthalmologist can decrease sight threatening complications.