dengue disease

Dengue Disease Description

Dengue fever, also known as break-bone fever, is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people [1]. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates.

The most common symptoms of dengue include:

• Fever
• Aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, etc.) [6]
• Areas with Risk of Dengue transmission are common in tropical and subtropical regions [2]

In its mild form, dengue causes fever and a rash, lasting about a week [7]. However, if left untreated, it can worsen to severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever), which is a more serious condition.

Dengue fever is characterized by intense muscle spasms, joint pain, and other symptoms that can last for several days. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have contracted the disease [9].

References:

[1] Apr 23, 2024 - Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. [2] May 14, 2024 - Symptoms. The most common dengue symptom is fever with: · Areas with Risk of Dengue. Dengue transmission is common in tropical and subtropical ... [6] May 14, 2024 — The most common symptom of dengue is fever with any of the following: Aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, ... [7] Dengue fever is a virus-caused disease that is spread by mosquitoes. Dengue in its mild form causes fever and a rash and lasts about a week. [9] by TJ Schaefer · 2022 · Cited by 112 — This disease is also known by various monikers, such as breakbone or 7-day fever, and is characterized by intense muscle spasms, joint pain, and ...

Common symptoms of dengue fever include:

• Sudden high fever [1]
• Severe headaches [7][15]
• Pain behind the eyes [3][4][5][7]
• Joint and muscle pain [3][4][5][7]
• Nausea [4]
• Vomiting [4]
• Swollen glands [4]
• Rash [4][7]

Other symptoms may include:

• Flu-like symptoms, such as coughing and a runny nose [12]
• Cholesterol fluctuations [12]
• Kidney disease and diabetes complications [12]

Severe dengue can lead to:

• Severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever), a life-threatening condition [8]
• Complications, such as shock and organ failure [6]

It's worth noting that:

• Direct spread of dengue from one person to another does not occur [13]
• Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are not found naturally in New York State [13]

Diagnostic Tests for Dengue Disease

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, can be diagnosed through various laboratory tests. The following are some of the diagnostic tests used to detect dengue virus:

• NS1 Test: This test detects the presence of the non-structural protein 1 (NS1) antigen in the blood, which is a marker for recent dengue infection [7].
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): PCR tests can detect the genetic material of the dengue virus in the blood, and are considered highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing dengue fever up to 7 days after the onset of symptoms [4].
• IgM/IgG Serological Test: This test detects the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies against the dengue virus in the blood. It is a useful tool for diagnosing dengue fever, especially during the acute phase of the disease [5].
• MAC-ELISA (Micro-Elisa): MAC-ELISA is a qualitative test used to detect IgM antibodies against the dengue virus in the blood. It is based on capturing human antibodies and detecting them using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [2].

When to Order Diagnostic Tests

For acute disease, clinicians should order NS1 or PCR and IgM for dengue; and PCR and IgM for chikungunya. This helps in early diagnosis and treatment of the disease [8].

References:

[1] May 3, 2023 — A dengue fever test checks a sample of your blood to see if you have the virus. [2] May 14, 2024 — The dengue MAC-ELISA is used for the qualitative detection of IgM antibodies against dengue virus. [3] Jul 17, 2024 — Your doctor may also draw a sample of blood to be tested in a lab for evidence of infection with one of the dengue viruses. [4] Nov 9, 2021 — Molecular tests for dengue virus (PCR)—detect the presence of the virus itself; these tests can diagnose dengue fever up to 7 days after the onset of symptoms. [5] by HBY Chan · 2017 · Cited by 45 — Dengue IgM/IgG serological test. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and/or immunoglobulin G (IgG) ELISA are the tests of choice for diagnosing dengue fever. [6] Jan 6, 2020 — I'll next focus on the available diagnostic methodologies, including testing by nucleic acid amplification tests, or NAATs, and evaluation of serological tests. [7] Diagnosis may involve detection of the virus, viral nucleic acid, antigens or antibodies, or a combination of these entities. Laboratory tests using NS1 (non-structural protein 1) antigen are also used for diagnosis. [8] DIAGNOSTIC TESTS. For acute disease, clinicians should order NS1 or PCR and IgM for dengue; and PCR and IgM for chikungunya.

Treatment Options for Dengue Disease

Dengue fever, a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, does not have a specific treatment. However, there are some medications that can help alleviate symptoms.

• Pain Relief: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended to treat pain and reduce fever [1][2][3]. It is available over-the-counter and can be taken as directed.
• No Specific Medicine: There is no specific medicine to treat dengue infection. Pain relievers like acetaminophen are used to manage symptoms [4].
• Supportive Care: In addition to pain relief, supportive care such as staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids, getting rest, and treating pain with acetaminophen only is advised [7].

It's essential to note that corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins have been used in the treatment of dengue with little success [6]. Aspirin and other salicylates should not be used due to the risk of bleeding.

References

[1] Jul 17, 2024 — No specific treatment for dengue fever exists. ... The over-the-counter (OTC) drug acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can help reduce muscle pain and ...

[2] Oct 22, 2024 — There is no specific medicine to treat dengue infection. If you think you may have dengue fever, take pain relievers such as acetaminophen (...

[3] Nov 16, 2022 — Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is recommended for treatment of pain and fever.

[4] Apr 23, 2024 — The focus is on treating pain symptoms. Most cases of dengue fever can be treated at home with pain medicine. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is...

[5] by S Rajapakse · 2012 · Cited by 175 — Similar to corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins have been used in the treatment of dengue with little success.

[6] Keeping yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids. Getting as much rest as possible. Treating pain with acetaminophen (like Tylenol®) only. Do...

[7] Jun 24, 2024 — No treatment: no specific antiviral agents exist for dengue. Supportive care is advised: patients should be advised to stay well hydrated and to...

Differential Diagnosis of Dengue Disease

Dengue fever can be easily confused with other diseases that present with similar symptoms, making differential diagnosis a crucial aspect of its management.

• Common viral illnesses: Dengue is often mistaken for common viral infections such as enterovirus infection, influenza, measles, and rubella