HEMOPHAGOCYTIC LYMPHOHISTIOCYTOSIS SECONDARY TO DENGUE FEVER

Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndrome often misdiagnosed due to its rarity and overlapping symptoms with sepsis or organ dysfunction. This case report describes a 52-year-old male who developed dengue-induced HLH after traveling to Barbados, presenting with multi-organ failure and laboratory abnormalities, including hyperferritinaemia and elevated IL-2R. Diagnosed via bone marrow biopsy, he was treated with corticosteroids and the IL-1R antagonist anakinra, leading to recovery. Dengue-associated HLH in adults is rare but rising due to increased global dengue incidence. Early recognition and tailored treatment are critical for improved outcomes.