Transaminitis and Gallbladder Wall Thickness as Predictors of Dengue Severity: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study in ICU Patients

BACKGROUND: Dengue fever, a significant global health concern, often leads to severe complications like hepatic injury and multi-organ dysfunction. Early identification of patients at risk of severe dengue is crucial for effective management. This study explores the role of transaminitis and gallbladder wall thickness (GBWT) as predictors of dengue severity in ICU patients. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 patients with confirmed dengue serology admitted to Max Super Speciality Hospital, Ghaziabad, from July to November 2023.(1–3) Patients were categorized into two groups: dengue with warning signs and severe dengue, based on WHO classification. Serum transaminase levels and gallbladder wall thickness were measured, and their correlations with clinical outcomes including ICU stay, mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and mortality were analysed.(4) RESULTS: The study found that higher levels of SGOT and SGPT were significantly associated with severe dengue (p < 0.001). Gallbladder wall thickening (GBWT >5mm) was present in 75.93% of severe dengue patients and 54.55% of those with warning signs (p = 0.015). In patients with GBWT >5mm a statistically significant difference was observed for need of mechanical ventilation (33.77% vs 9.30%, p value 0.04) and dialysis (23.38% vs 6.98%, p 0.025). A significantly higher mortality rate was seen in GBWT >5 mm (25.97%vs 4.65%, p – 0.003).(5–7) CONCLUSION: Transaminitis and increased gallbladder wall thickness are significant indicators of severe dengue, with potential utility in early risk stratification for patients at high risk of complications. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring these parameters to improve clinical decision-making in dengue management. KEYWORDS: Dengue fever, Severe Dengue, Gallbladder wall thickness (GBWT), Transaminitis, Dengue Severity.