Abstract
Objective: To present clinical features, laboratory investigation and management out come of hospitalized patients of suspected or confirmed Dengue virus infection
Study Design: A descriptive study
Setting: Medical wards of three units Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore
Duration of Study: September-November 2008.
Methodology: Patient above 16 years presenting fever of equal or more than 10 days duration, bone pains, rash loss of appetite and bleeding manifestations were included in the study. Demographic characteristic of patients were recorded. Complete blood count specifically platelet count, liver function test were done. Serological evaluation was done for dengue IgM by rapid test chromatography. Seronegtive patients were also included in the study on basis of high degree of suspicion. Paracetamol and parentral fluids were prescribed Platelet transfusion were given to those with bleeding and those with platelet count < 20,000/mm(3). Patients were discharged when symptoms selected and platelet count > 50,000/mm(3)
Results: The study included 254 patients between 16-80 years of age males were 156 (57.5%) and females 108 (42.5%). Average duration of symptoms at presentation was six days. Predominant symptoms were fever in 248 (97.6%) myalgia in 247 (97.2%) anorexia in 249 (98%), rash in 76 (29.9%) and bleeding manifestations in 58 (22.8%). Platelets were low i.e. < 100,000/mm(3) in 86.7% of patients. Leucopenia was observed in 56% of patients. Serology for Dengue infection IgM was positive in 60% of patients. In the study 72 patient (28.3%) required platelet infusions. Majority of patient were discharged home with average stay of 6 +/- 4.76 days in hospital except three. Two developed Dengue shock syndrome and third died of gastro intestinal bleeding.
Conclusion: Dengue fever is acute febrile self limiting illness but may have fatal out come in some patients. Since there is no vaccine available prevention of disease depends upon mosquito control.