Dengue virus infection: A systematic review of pathogenesis, diagnosis and management

Dengue fever (DF), caused by the dengue virus (DENV), remains a significant global health threat. Despite its impact, no specific antiviral treatments exist, and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management. This review explores DENV pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies. Host-virus interactions, including antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), cross-reactive memory T cells, and anti-DENV NS1 antibodies, are key factors in disease progression. Viral proteins, such as the envelope (E) and NS1, along with genome variations, contribute to disease severity. Diagnostic methods have evolved from conventional assays to rapid serological assays and point-of-care tests, enhancing early detection. However, clinical management remains supportive, focusing on fluid resuscitation tailored to the patient's clinical status, close monitoring of vital signs, and judicious use of blood products for severe cases. This study suggests that a deeper understanding of DENV pathogenesis, improved diagnostic tools, and the development of effective therapeutics are essential for optimizing dengue management.