Potential Role of Immature Platelet Fraction in Dengue Fever: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Dengue fever has emerged as a major international public health concern with a dramatic global increase in its frequency over the past few decades. It may present as a mild illness to a life-threatening condition with the major pathophysiological hallmark being plasma leakage as a result of increased vascular permeability and haematological abnormalities. The unpredictable nature and progression of the disease has led to research of novel haematological markers like Immature Platelet Fraction (IPF) which may help enhance the precision and efficacy of dengue management strategies by guiding the need for blood transfusion and blood lab monitoring, decreasing financial cost and hospital stay. This review provides detailed information about the immunopathogenesis of dengue, which is responsible for the fatal complexities and also gives the definition and uses of IPF by the healthcare workers. It aims to delve into the evolving role of IPF in the management of dengue, exploring its potential applications in assessing disease severity, predicting haemorrhagic tendencies and guiding therapeutic interventions. The review informs the readers about the implications and significance of the use of IPF in the treatment of dengue and how this technique can potentially reduce disease severity by timely diagnosis and treatment.