Study of hematological parameters in dengue cases

Introduction: Dengue virus is a flavivirus spread by mosquitoes. Dengue fever is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality from arthropod-borne illnesses, particularly in tropical regions, with around 96 million cases and 20,000 to 25,000 deaths annually. Dengue is a major preventable and treatable cause of morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of dengue is important for provision of special care which ensures marked reduction in the morbidity. Standard diagnostic methods include RT-PCR, Ig M antibody detection and NS1 antigen detection. Hematological examination is an essential step in the management of these patients. Hematological abnormalities such as thrombocytopenia, raised hematocrit, leucopenia with relative lymphocytosis and reactive lymphocytes can be identified through a complete blood count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear. This study aims to explore the hematological profiles of dengue-positive patients and their implications for patient management. Materials and Methods: This is a study conducted in Civil hospital, Ahmedabad over a period of 3 months. Total 100 Patients with documented IgM antibody and NS1 antigen positivity were included in the Study. Hematological analysis was obtained from an automated hematology analyzer and subsequent peripheral smears were also screened. Results: Dengue infection was more common in the adult age group with slight male preponderance. Hematological findings like decreased platelet count in 88% cases, Leucopenia in 39% cases, raised hematocrit in 15% cases and leucopenia with relative lymphocytosis in 25% cases were observed and reactive lymphocytes were seen in 22% on peripheral smear. Conclusion: In patients with Acute febrile illness, presence of thrombocytopenia, Leucopenia with relative lymphocytosis and reactive lymphocytes on peripheral smear can help in early recognition of severe dengue infection. A raised hematocrit, Leucopenia and thrombocytopenia warn clinician regarding the likelihood of patient having dengue haemorrhagic fever. Early recognition and prevention of complications are most important for a favorable outcome of the disease.