Dengue fever can range from mild to severe, with the most severe form being dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Here’s a breakdown of the severity levels:
1. Mild Dengue Fever (Dengue Fever)
- Symptoms:
- Fever (2–7 days)
- Headache, retro-orbital pain, muscle/ joint pain, rash
- No signs of plasma leakage or severe bleeding
- Rationale: This is the most common form, often self-limiting with supportive care.
2. Severe Dengue (DHF/DSS)
- Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF):
- Symptoms:
- Fever, bleeding (e.g., petechiae, gum bleeding), plasma leakage (e.g., pleural effusion, ascites)
- Thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100,000/mm³)
- Positive tourniquet test (20+ petechiae/2.5 cm)
- Rationale: Occurs in patients with prior dengue infection due to antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE).
- Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS):
- Symptoms:
- All DHF signs + hypotension (systolic BP < 80 mmHg in adults, < 50 mmHg in children)
- Cold, clammy skin, rapid pulse, narrow pulse pressure
- Rationale: Life-threatening due to circulatory failure; requires urgent fluid resuscitation.
Key Risk Factors for Severe Dengue:
- Prior dengue infection (increases risk of ADE)
- Young age or advanced age
- Co-morbidities (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
Would you like details on diagnosis or management?