An Integrated Review of Dengue Fever!

Dengue is the most widespread human arboviral infection, transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, with a global incidence that has risen sharply due to climate change, rapid urbanization, and the expanding distribution of mosquito vectors. This review synthesizes current knowledge on three interconnected dimensions of dengue epidemiology, pathophysiology, and molecular diagnostics to provide an integrated understanding of its evolving burden and clinical challenges. Dengue virus (DENV), comprising four distinct serotypes, causes a wide clinical spectrum from asymptomatic infection to severe disease, with antibody-dependent enhancement during secondary infections playing a key role in progression to plasma leakage, shock, and organ impairment. Globally, dengue continues to expand, with Asia carrying the highest burden; in Bangladesh, the shifting dominance of circulating serotypes and changing geographic patterns highlight the need for robust surveillance. Advances in early diagnostic tools such as NS1 antigen detection and RT-PCR have significantly improved timely case identification, while serological assays aid differentiation between primary and secondary infections, crucial for risk assessment. Despite these improvements, diagnostic accessibility remains limited in many resource-constrained settings, and disease management continues to rely on supportive care due to the absence of specific antiviral therapy. Effective control, therefore, depends on integrated vector management, improved diagnostic capacity, and the cautious use of vaccines such as Dengvaxia, alongside ongoing efforts to develop safer and broader vaccine options. Continued research and adaptive public health strategies remain essential to reducing morbidity and mortality from this increasingly important global health threat. J Enam Med Col 2023; 13(3): 110-115