Airway breathing circulation dengue: a case of multifactorial shock due to major trauma and severe dengue infection

Background: Dengue is the most common arboviral illness reported globally, endemic to most tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Dengue Shock Syndrome is a rare complication of severe Dengue infection resulting in haemorrhagic complications and refractory hypotension. We report on a case of severe dengue diagnosed in a patient with major trauma and illustrate some of the potential challenges and considerations in the clinical management of such cases.

Case presentation: A 49-year-old female presented following a road trauma incident with multiple abdominal injuries requiring urgent laparotomy. Her recovery in Intensive Care Unit was complicated by the development of Dengue Shock Syndrome characterised by a falling haemoglobin and platelet count, multiorgan dysfunction and prolonged hospital stay.

Conclusions: Dengue Shock Syndrome may complicate fluid management and bleeding control in major trauma cases. Awareness of Dengue, particularly in endemic areas and returned travellers may help facilitate early diagnosis and management of complications.