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Symptoms of Dengue

Slide 14

May 2012

There are 3 phases of disease due to dengue virus infection, the febrile phase, critical phase, and recovery phase.

The febrile phase is characterized by high fever, headache, generalized arthralgia and myalgia; thus the "breakbone" description. Progressive leukopenia is noted and petechiae and bleeding from mucous membranes may occur.

In the critical phase we see defervescence, progression of leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.

Importantly, we see an increase of capillary permeability leading to a plasma leakage – this is primary indicator of the severity of disease.

Abdominal pain is often a sign of plasma leakage, if uncorrected by intravenous rehydration, plasma leakage can lead to metabolic acidosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation, resulting in a high risk of death.

During the recovery phase, we see a resorption of leaked plasma.

The haemodynamic status stabilizes, and the urinary output increases. There is an overall clinical improvement. It is very important to note that the prevention of fluid overload during the recovery phase is critical, as this is a preventable cause of death in severe dengue.

Symptoms of Dengue
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