Dengue encephalitis: A case highlighting neurological complications and diagnostic challenges

This case report describes a female in her 20 s who developed dengue encephalitis, presenting with fever, headache, vomiting and altered sensorium progressing to encephalopathy. Initial tests revealed elevated white blood cells, thrombocytopenia, and liver enzyme abnormalities. On day 2 of illness, The patient tested positive for dengue NS1 antigen and CSF PCR for DENV-2. Imaging showed bilateral thalamic oedema, later progressing to haemorrhage and diffuse cerebral oedema. Despite supportive care, her condition rapidly worsened, leading to death on day 7 of illness. The case highlights the challenges in diagnosing dengue encephalitis, particularly in the absence of definitive serological markers. It underscores the need for early detection, supportive care, and advanced diagnostic techniques in managing severe dengue cases.