Publication:

Clinical profile of dengue fever in children presented at a tertiary care hospital

Background Dengue fever is a benign syndrome caused by an arthropod-borne virus and is characterized by Biphasic fever, myalgia, and arthralgia, rash, leucopenia, and lymphadenopathy. Dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome are a severe, often fatal febrile disease caused by 1 of 4 dengue virus. It is characterized by increased capillary permeability, abnormalities of hemostasis and protein-losing shock syndrome. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical profile, complications and outcome of dengue infection in children.

Methods All children attending the hospital with symptoms and signs suggestive of dengue fever were tested for NS1 antigen and IgM/ IgG dengue antibody serology (depending on the day of fever) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.

Results Of the 174-dengue serology positive children, fever was the most common major symptom (97.7%) followed by vomiting (85.6%), loss of appetite (81.6%), abdominal pain (77%), body pain/leg pain (62.6%). Severe dengue as per WHO criteria was seen in 29 (16.7%) children. Thrombocytopenia (platelet count less 1,00,000) was observed in 82 children (47%), Platelet count less than 20,000 in 8 children (4.5%). Dengue shock syndrome was seen it 26 children (15%). Mortality was nil.

Conclusions In children, if symptoms like fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and body pain are present, a strong possibility of dengue fever is present especially in an epidemic setting. Early suspicion and effective management can reduce the severity.