Epidemiological and Clinical Presentation of Dengue Infection in the Gadap Region of Karachi. A Survey Based Study
Shazia Azhar *
Department of Medical Technology, Baqai Institute of Medical Technology, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Syeda Shabana Nasir
Department of Medical Technology, Baqai Institute of Medical Technology, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Syed Mohsin Turab
Department of Pharmacology, Hamdard College of Medicine & Dentistry, Hamdard University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Hina Abbas
Department of Medical Technology, Baqai Institute of Medical Technology, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Shaima Sultana Memon
Department of Pathology, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan.
Nimra Qadeer
Department of Medical Technology, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Dengue fever has emerged as a major arboviral disease with a significant impact oF the disease burden in tropical countries.
Aim: The goal of this study was to look at the clinical and laboratory profiles of dengue infection.
Methodology: During 2018 and 2019; a cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the epidemiological and clinical features of dengue fever in the Gadap region of Karachi, Pakistan.
Results: Positive cases were reported during the study period, which spanned the months of August to December following the monsoon season. Among the 200 positive patients, 160 had dengue fever (DF) and 40 had dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) (male 160 and female 40). Fever was the most common symptom, followed by Arthralgia/Myalgia, Headache, and Vomiting. Patients with Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever had a higher rate of haemorrhage. Thrombocytopenia and leucopenia were discovered to be common laboratory findings in patients with Dengue fever and Dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Conclusion: Clinical and laboratory characteristics of dengue cases studied could be used to identify patients at risk of severe dengue fever early on.
Keywords: Dengue infection, arboviral disease, fever, leucopenia, serotype