Alternative markers in complete blood count as predictors of dengue fever severity

Dengue fever (DF) is a viral infection transmitted between humans by Aedes mosquitoes. To identify DF and evaluate severity, serological tests and clinical parameters are commonly used, but these may not be available in small local hospitals or subjective. The study aimed to identify the correlation of changes in complete blood count, including white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), and platelet with severity of DF. This is a cross-sectional study, conducted at Bach Mai Hospital between October 2023 and February 2024. Data was imported to Excel then transferred to SPSS for analysis using the ANOVA or paired t-test. The study included 182 patients with a mean age of 41.1 ± 20.77 years (age range: 3-95). Patients with severe DF had significantly higher WBC counts and the neutrophil percentage compared to those with mild DF and DF with warning signs (P < .05). Patients with severe DF had a significantly lower lymphocyte percentage and the RBC count compared to those with mild DF and DF with warning signs (P < .05). Hematocrit values were similar across all groups (P > .05) and platelet counts were relatively similar across the groups (P > .05). Patients with severe DF had significantly higher WBC and neutrophil percentages, as well as lower lymphocyte and RBC counts, compared to those with non-severe DF. Significant changes in these parameters can help identify patients at risk of severe DF, allowing for timely intervention in small local hospitals.