Biochemical and Hematological Markers as Predictors of Severity in Pediatric Dengue: A Case Series Analysis

Abstract

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness caused by the dengue virus with a spectrum of presentations ranging from mild febrile illness to severe life-threatening conditions such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). Early identification of severe cases is crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality especially in vulnerable pediatric populations. This case series presents four pediatric patients with varying degrees of dengue severity emphasizing the role of biochemical and hematological parameters in assessing disease severity and guiding clinical management. Parameters such as ferritin, LDH, lactate, liver enzymes (AST, ALT), platelet count and coagulation markers (PT, APTT) and PCV were observed to correlate with disease severity and recovery. The normalization of these markers with treatment highlighted their utility in monitoring patient progress. These findings reinforce the importance of incorporating a broad biochemical assessment in dengue management protocols to optimize patient outcomes.