Clinical and laboratory behavior of dengue shock among pediatric patients

Abstract

Introduction: Dengue is the arthropod-borne disease causing the highest morbidity and mortality worldwide. This condition is currently considered the tenth leading cause of death in the world, mainly in pediatric ages.

Objective: Characterize the clinical and laboratory behavior of dengue shock in children aged one year and over.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 19 patients diagnosed with dengue shock. Statistical analysis was based on the summary measurements frequency, percentage, range, median and mode.

Results: Dengue shock signs prevailed in white female patients aged over five years, of normal weight and with a history of good health. Most were admitted on the fourth day; fever was the main reason for admission. Gradual hematocrit increase was the main warning sign, whereas hypotension without any other shock symptom was the most common clinical manifestation. Crystalloid solutions were the most frequently used, with a very good clinical response.

Conclusions: All the patients evolved satisfactorily; no death occurred due to dengue, despite the fact that many patients were admitted during the critical stage of the disease; warning signs were appropriately identified and clinical manifestations of dengue shock were controlled and treated.