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Neurologic Sequelae After Encephalitis Associated With Dengue Virus in Children
Neha Srivastava1, Rakesh Mankal2, Rohit Beniwal1
1ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Gorakhpur, India.
Open Forum Infectious Diseases
|October 2, 2025
Summary
Neurologic sequelae affect 39% of children with dengue-associated acute encephalitis syndrome (DEN-AES). Early diagnosis and rehabilitation are crucial for managing cognitive and behavioral impairments in affected children.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Dengue virus is increasingly linked to neurologic complications.
- Dengue-associated acute encephalitis syndrome (DEN-AES) is a recognized complication.
- Neurologic sequelae in pediatric DEN-AES cases have not been previously studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the extent and types of neurologic sequelae in children with DEN-AES.
- To identify common domains of neurologic impairment following DEN-AES.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of pediatric DEN-AES cases (≤18 years) discharged between 2018-2019 was assessed.
- DEN-AES diagnosis was confirmed using serological and molecular dengue tests.
- Long-term neurologic sequelae were evaluated using a standardized disability assessment tool during home visits.
Main Results:
- Neurologic sequelae were observed in 39.3% of 56 pediatric DEN-AES cases.
- Cognitive and behavioral impairments were the most frequent sequelae (37.5%).
- Six children experienced severe disabilities, and 5 required antiepileptic drugs for ongoing seizures.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of pediatric DEN-AES cases develop neurologic sequelae.
- Early diagnosis, consistent follow-up, and rehabilitation policies are essential in dengue-endemic areas.
- Addressing neurologic sequelae is critical for improving outcomes in children affected by DEN-AES.
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