STUDY OF ETIOLOGY AND OUTCOME IN ACUTE FEBRILE ILLNESS PATIENTS WITH ORGAN DYSFUNCTION IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTER IN MANDYA

Acute febrile illness (AFI) is a prevalent cause of hospitalization,often leading to severe complications,including multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (MODS),particularly in developing nations like India.This observational study investigates the etiology and outcomes of AFI with organ dysfunction in a cohort of 40 patients admitted to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences between May and June 2023.Inclusion criteria comprised patients over 18 years with fever lasting less than seven days and at least one organ dysfunction. A comprehensive assessment was conducted, documenting demographic data,clinical symptoms,and diagnostic test results.Findings revealed that the majority of patients (52.5%) were male,with a significant incidence of renal (40%) and hepatic dysfunction (32.5%).MODS was identified in 57.5% of the patients,with bacterial infections confirmed in 30% and viral in 10%.Notably,60% of cases remained undiagnosed despite extensive investigations.The mortality rate was 15%,predominantly among patients aged 49-58 years and those presenting with altered sensorium, highlighting a concerning correlation between comorbidities like diabetes, poor Glasgow Coma Scale scores, and mortality. The study underscores the critical challenge posed by undiagnosed AFI, which is associated with higher mortality compared to cases with identifiable causes. The findings advocate for the development of standardized diagnostic protocols and cost-effective serological markers to improve early diagnosis and management of AFI. Further research on geographic trends and causative agents is essential for formulating effective interventions to reduce mortality associated with this condition.