Correlation of inferior vena cava ultrasound with packed cell volume and clinical condition in children with dengue fever

Abstract

Objective: To correlate collapsibility of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with packed cell volume (PCV) and clinical condition and to ascertain IVC collapsibility as a guide to estimate intravascular volume using bedside ultrasonography (USG) in children with dengue fever. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Pediatric Emergency Department of an academic hospital in India. Clinical data and PCV of children with dengue fever aged between 1 month to 18 years were documented. The collapsibility of IVC was determined using bedside ultrasonogram. Results: IVC collapsibility correlates with high PCV and dengue shock in children (p = 0.000). IVC was not collapsible in children with normal PCV (p = 0.000). The collapsibility of IVC correlated with the need for normal saline bolus (p = 0.000), colloids (p = 0.002), PICU admission (p = 0.015) and mortality (p = < 0.05). Conclusions: The assessment of intravascular volume status by determining IVC collapsibility using bedside USG is a helpful non-invasive tool in children with dengue fever.