Post-dengue encephalopathy and Parkinsonism

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Neurologic manifestations of dengue virus infection are uncommon.
• Parkinsonism has been rarely reported as a sequela of dengue, with only one adult case documented previously.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old child presented with symptoms of encephalopathy and Parkinsonism following dengue infection.
• The patient's symptoms were self-limiting, indicating a transient neurological impact.

Findings:

• This case represents the first documented instance of post-dengue Parkinsonism in a pediatric patient.
• The findings expand the spectrum of known neurological complications associated with dengue fever in children.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of the potential for post-dengue Parkinsonism in children presenting with neurological symptoms after pyrexia in dengue-endemic regions.
• Early recognition and consideration of this rare complication can aid in appropriate patient management and diagnosis.