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Page: Diagnosis
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The diagnosis of dengue is usually made clinically. The classic picture is high fever with no localising source of infection, a petechial rash with thrombocytopenia and relative leukopenia.
There exists a WHO definition of dengue haemorrhagic fever that has been in use since 1975; all four criteria must be fulfilled:
1. Fever
2. Haemorrhagic tendency (positive tourniquet test, spontaneous bruising, bleeding from mucosa, gingiva, injection sites, etc.; vomiting blood, or bloody diarrhea)
3. Thrombocytopaenia (<100,000 platelets per mm^(3) or estimated as less than 3 platelets per high power field)
4. Evidence of plasma leakage (hematocrit more than 20% higher than expected, or drop in haematocrit of 20% or more from baseline following IV fluid, pleural effusion, ascites, hypoproteinaemia)
Dengue shock syndrome is defined as dengue haemorrhagic fever plus:
* Weak rapid pulse,
* Narrow pulse pressure (less than 20 mm Hg)
or,
* Hypotension for age;
* Cold, clammy skin and restlessness.
Serology and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) studies are available to confirm the diagnosis of dengue if clinically indicated.
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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