B12 Deficiency: Hidden Player in Dengue-Induced Thrombocytopenia

Dengue fever is a significant health challenge in tropical and subtropical countries. Because it increases the likelihood of thrombocytopenia with hemorrhagic symptoms, treating thrombocytopenia is a serious clinical concern. According to some studies, certain vitamin status may impact platelet deficiency and hence the clinical outcome of the disease. Objectives: To determine the association between the severity of thrombocytopenia, bleeding manifestations, and the severity of Dengue fever with Vitamin B12 deficiency. Methods: It was a prospective cohort study carried out over 4 months. A total of 139 patients were included in the study. Serial blood counts and Vitamin B12 were checked. Patients were observed for any bleeding manifestations and need for transfusion of Blood components. Results: Among 139 patients, 46% exhibited moderate thrombocytopenia, 30.9% showed severe thrombocytopenia and 5.8 % had a very severe drop in platelet count. A large proportion (82.7%) had normal B12 levels and cross-tabulation between serum B12 levels and severity of thrombocytopenia was not significant (p-value=0.34). Conclusion: It was concluded that the severity of thrombocytopenia was not associated with underlying Vitamin B12 deficiency.