Hanh's blood tests at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, revealed reduced white blood cells and platelets, hemoconcentration, and elevated liver enzymes. She was closely monitored for severe complications, including plasma leakage, hemorrhage from low platelets and coagulation disorders, and organ failure affecting the liver, kidneys, heart, and brain.

By days 5-6, Hanh's platelet count had fallen to nearly 50,000/mm3 (normal range is 150,000-450,000/mm3). Her liver enzyme levels, which indicate liver inflammation and damage, increased to 606/333 U/L, a tenfold rise from normal. Dr.CKII Nguyen Thi Minh Hien stated that the patient faced a risk of severe hepatitis or liver failure if her condition was not well managed.

Dr.CKII Nguyen Thi Minh Hien, from the Pediatrics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, monitored the patient's daily fluid intake and urine output. This was to assess her circulatory status and the risk of progressive hemoconcentration. Daily tests were conducted for platelets, hematocrit, liver enzymes, and coagulation.

A nurse checks Hanh's pulse. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

On day 6, Hanh's fever subsided, she felt mildly fatigued, and scattered petechiae appeared under her skin. Her laboratory indicators, including platelets, hematocrit, liver enzymes, and coagulation, gradually stabilized. She was discharged after 7 days.

According to Dr. Hien, dengue fever has no specific cure. Treatment focuses on supportive care, fluid replacement, fever reduction, and close monitoring, especially during days 3-7 due to the elevated risk of complications. Uncontrolled high liver enzymes can lead to liver failure. Parents should seek early medical attention if a child experiences prolonged high fever.

Dengue fever typically progresses through three stages: an initial phase characterized by continuous high fever, headache, retro-orbital pain, muscle and joint pain, and sometimes petechiae. The critical phase, usually from days 4-7, sees the fever subside but carries a risk of plasma leakage and severe complications. Recovery generally occurs from days 7-10 of the illness.

While most dengue cases are mild and resolve, some patients can develop severe complications. These include shock, hemorrhage, or organ damage, potentially requiring supportive dialysis.

To prevent dengue, parents should maintain a clean living environment to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Children should wear long-sleeved clothing and sleep under mosquito nets to prevent mosquito bites. Children aged 4 and above are eligible for the dengue vaccine, which reduces the risk of infection or severe progression.

Minh Tam

*Patient's name has been changed