Estimation of the Prevalence of Hepatic Dysfunction Among Dengue Infected Patients: A Hospital Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: This study investigates the frequency of liver involvement in dengue patients and the potential of abnormal liver function tests as early indicators of illness severity. Results show a clear correlation between severe dengue outcomes and hepatic impairment, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment for this public health concern. Aims: To assess the prevalence of liver dysfunction in Dengue patients and its association with Dengue-related complications. Materials and Methods: The present study was a Hospital based Observational Cross sectional study. This Study was conducted from February 2022 to June 2022 at Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Central Laboratory, OPD Biochemistry and Microbiology Laboratory, Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata. 121 dengue infected patients were included in our study. Result: The results indicate that the majority of participants were young to middle-aged, predominantly male, and mostly from urban areas. Fever was a universal symptom, with vomiting and abdominal pain also common. Liver enzyme levels were elevated in many patients, indicating varying degrees of hepatic dysfunction—most commonly mild to moderate. A significant association was found between the severity of dengue and liver dysfunction, with abnormal liver function more prevalent in severe cases. Moreover, patients with hepatic dysfunction had a higher incidence of ICU admission and mortality, highlighting liver involvement as a marker of worse clinical outcomes in dengue infection. Conclusion: In summary, the study findings highlight that hepatic dysfunction is prevalent among dengue patients, particularly in more severe forms of the disease. While most liver involvement is mild to moderate, its presence correlates with a higher likelihood of adverse outcomes. These results underscore the importance of early identification and monitoring of liver function in dengue patients, especially those presenting with warning signs or severe symptoms.