Severe dengue in the intensive care unit

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Dengue fever is the most prevalent vector-borne disease globally, with transmission increasing eightfold in two decades.
• While most cases are mild, 5% develop severe dengue, characterized by shock, thrombocytopenia, and hemorrhage.
• Immune overactivation and excessive cytokine release are implicated in severe dengue pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review on the diagnosis and management of severe dengue.
• To focus on critical care strategies for patients with severe dengue in the intensive care unit.
• To highlight risk factors and warning signs for severe dengue progression.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on severe dengue.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and clinical manifestations.
• Evaluation of intensive care unit management protocols and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

• Severe dengue is associated with increased vascular permeability, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy.
• Risk factors include prior infection, viral genotypes, genetic factors, and comorbidities.
• Early recognition of warning signs and prompt hospitalization are crucial for reducing mortality.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of severe dengue requires a multidisciplinary approach in the intensive care setting.
• Continued research into dengue pathogenesis and treatment is essential.
• Adherence to World Health Organization guidelines improves patient outcomes.