Corticosteroid responsive prolonged thrombocytopenia in a case of dengue fever

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Aug 26:2013:200249. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-200249.

Abstract

Thrombocytopenia and bleeding manifestations are consistent features of dengue fever. Usually thrombocytopenia resolves and platelet count normalises by day 10 of fever. Persistent thrombocytopenia is not a feature of dengue fever. Proposed mechanisms behind thrombocytopenia are many. Direct platelet destruction by dengue virus, immune-mediated platelet destruction and even megakaryocytic immune injury have been proposed as underlying mechanisms. We are reporting a case of an old man who presented in dengue season in 2012 with fever and bleeding and was diagnosed as a case of dengue fever. He developed persistent thrombocytopenia requiring treatment on the lines of immune thrombocytopenia and responded to steroids. Other causes of thrombocytopenia were ruled out.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Dengue / complications
  • Dengue / immunology*
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Thrombocytopenia / drug therapy*
  • Thrombocytopenia / immunology
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Prednisolone