Clinico-laboratory profile and outcome of dengue fever among children attending a tertiary care hospital of rural Telangana, India

Background: Dengue is a self-limiting, vector-borne disease transmitted by Aedes mosquito, causing a major public health threat globally. The objective of this study is to assess the clinical profile and outcome of the dengue infection in children less than 14 years of age September 2018 to August 2019 at the Pediatric Department of S.V.S. Medical College, the tertiary care hospital in Mahabubnagar, Telanagana.Methods: Prospective study of 82 hospitalized children of <14 years with the diagnosis of dengue illness. Children with diagnosis of dengue were classified further in to two groups as per WHO guidelines, Non-severe dengue fever (probable dengue, dengue with warning signs) and 'Severe Dengue' (Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever and/or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DHF/DSS). A separate questionnaire form used for documenting clinical history, laboratory parameters. Haematological parameters were noted, chest x-ray, ultra-sonogram in required cases was done. Children were managed as per WHO protocol. The outcomes of the cases were mentioned as discharge, left against medical advice and death.Results: A total of 82 children with dengue were divided in to 55(67%) non severe dengue and 27(33%) severe dengue with males 56(68.2%) and females 26(31.7%). The most common age of presentation was between 6-10 years 34(41.5%). Fever 73(89%) was the most common presenting symptoms. Pleural effusion and hepatomegaly were the commonest clinical findings 28(34.1%) each, which were more among the severe dengue patients. Gall bladder edema 29(35.3%) was the most common ultra-sonogram finding. Significant elevation of transaminases (SGOP, SGPT) was seen in 39(47.5%). Severe thrombocytopenia was observed in 22(26.8%) children. Management was by administration of colloids and crystalloids.Conclusions: Dengue is a global problem. Presenting features include high grade fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, skin rash. Early recognition of symptoms and proper management can reduce the mortality.