Neurological disorders related to pediatric dengue infection

In the last decade, Dengue virus has become a major public health concern, with increasing numbers of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths worldwide. The Aedes mosquito vector's migration, aided by adaptation to climate change has allowed Dengue virus to spread into temperate regions. The major impact of the disease occurs in regions with limited resources, creating a significant burden for these countries. There is a growing body of information characterizing the neurological disorders related to pediatric Dengue infection. In addition to reviewing Dengue virus structure, disease diagnostic criteria and current WHO guidelines, this article discusses the neuropathogenic mechanisms of infection, and the resultant impact on the central and peripheral nervous systems. Our group has created a framework correlating the presentation of neurologic disorders to Dengue virus phases of infection. There is an urgent need for epidemiological analysis and a systematic approach to catalogue the emerging reports of pediatric neurological disorders related to dengue virus infection. We propose that key regional and professional stakeholders could foster educational advances and improve preventative, diagnostic and therapeutic care of pediatric patients impacted by Dengue virus.