Dengue Score: Predictor of Plasma Leakage

Abstract

Background: Many biochemical and hematological changes occur in dengue infection, which is dependent on the clinical disease. The Dengue Score (DS) is a useful tool for anticipating plasma leakage. The platelet count, hematocrit (Hct), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) ratio and albumin is used for it. Aim: To predict a score useful to detect dengue hemorrhagic fever. Method: The study was retrospective observational. It is done in Dengue wards in Ghurki teaching hospital Lahore and Mayo Hospital Lahore. In the study 100 patients record was taken who were admitted from August 2021 to November 2021. A proforma was filled. SPSS 23 was used for statistical analysis of the data. Results: The mean age was 38.32±13.713. Out of 100 patients 57(57%) were male while 43(43%) were female. 32 were included in dengue score (DS) ≤1, 33 were included in dengue score = 2 and 35 were included in dengue score ≥3. Ascites developed in 6 patients with DS ≤1, 24 with DS ═2, 31 with DS ≥3. Pleural effusion developed in 3 with DS ≤1, 20 with DS ═2, 21 with DS ≥3 so It showed significant association of effusion and ascites with DS = 2 and score ≥3. Conclusion: Dengue score can be calculated by change in hemoconcentration, platelets, serum albumin and AST ratio so it can be used to predict plasma leakage which is part of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Keywords: Dengue Score (DS), Plasma Leakage, Pleural effusion, Ascites