Dengue in pregnancy: Review article

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Dengue fever is a significant global health issue, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Approximately 40% of the global population resides in dengue-risk areas, increasing exposure for travelers.
• Pregnant women and women of reproductive age traveling to endemic zones face risks from arboviral infections like dengue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management of dengue in pregnancy.
• To elucidate the effects of dengue infection on maternal health and fetal outcomes.
• To provide a cohesive reference for clinicians and women of reproductive age regarding dengue and pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on dengue in pregnancy.
• Analysis of studies examining clinical presentations, maternal complications, and fetal impacts.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on diagnosis, management strategies, and prevention.

Main Results:

• Symptomatic dengue in pregnant women in low-resource settings is associated with adverse maternal outcomes.
• Clinical manifestations of dengue range from asymptomatic to severe hemorrhagic fever.
• Evidence suggests potential impacts on fetal development and pregnancy progression.

Conclusions:

• A high index of clinical suspicion is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
• Early referral to tertiary care centers can mitigate serious maternal-fetal adverse events.
• This review aids clinicians in managing pregnant women with dengue in endemic and travel-associated scenarios.