Triage of Pediatric Dengue Disease Cases at KBNIMS Kalaburagi Outpatient Clinic – A Retrospective Observation Study

Abstract

Background and aim Dengue infection is a systemic and dynamic disease that is complex in its manifestations. However managing it is relatively straightforward inexpensive and effective in saving lives if appropriate and timely measures are taken. This study aimed to define case severity based on clinical features a simple tourniquet test that can be performed easily at the OPD level laboratory parameters USG findings and particularly the inferior vena cava IVC collapsibility index.Material and Methods A retrospective observational study involving 80 paediatric dengue patients presenting to OPD at Khaja Banda Nawaz Teaching and General Hospital Kalaburagi from Dec 2019 to July 2021 was conducted.Results Out of 80 patients 51 63 patients presented with features of dengue fever 25 31 patients presented with Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever DHF and 4 5 patients presented with Dengue Shock Syndrome DSS. Thirty six patients 71 with dengue fever were managed on an OPD basis and 15 29 were managed in OPD day-care. Twenty nine patients 36 showing features of DHF and DSS were hospitalised.Conclusion This study showed that a well-managed front-line response reduces hospital admissions and complications. Ultrasound examination helps identify the plasma leakage and inferior vena cava collapsibility facilitating fluid management.