Management of dengue infection: improving morbidity

Abstract

Dengue is a vector borne disease, prevalent in the tropics in epidemic proportions. In recent years it has become one of the highest mortality causing communicable diseases in the tropics. Its pathophysiology is not completely understood. In the absence of a definitive treatment modality, supportive care is the most important tool. Having a better understanding of the haematological and biochemical changes is of paramount importance in order to provide effective supportive care to achieve speedy recovery with minimum morbidity and mortality. Although several candidate vaccines have been produced most are still undergoing phase III clinical trials. This article intends to discuss identified and postulated pathophysiological modalities in dengue infection and possible therapeutic/management options that could be adopted to reduce dengue morbidity and mortality.