Study of alteration of hematological and biochemical parameters among adult patients with dengue infection at a tertiary care hospital in Western Maharashtra

Introduction: Dengue is an important mosquito-borne viral disease worldwide with increasing emergence in India. It has varied epidemiological factors and presentations; hence, laboratory diagnosis and analysis is extremely essential. This study aims to analyze the alteration of hematological and biochemical parameters in adult patients diagnosed with dengue at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on 729 diagnosed adult cases of dengue over a period of 1 year. Patients with secondary infections and preexisting diseases were excluded from the study. Laboratory data of serological parameters and hematological and biochemical profiles were recorded and analyzed using Epi Info 7.2.5.0 and MedCalc Statistical Software. Results: The study was done from January 2022 to December 2022, consisting of 446 males (61.1%) and 283 females (38.8%). The infection was most prevalent in the 2nd-3rd decades of life. Serological parameters showed 31.4% NS1 positive and 29.4% IgM positive. The peak annual incidence was seen in July-August. Thrombocytopenia was the most commonly deranged parameter seen in 56% of patients and leukopenia was seen in 20.8% of cases. 34.8% of cases had hemoglobin <12 g/dl. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine transaminase levels were elevated in 58.5% and 44.3%, respectively. Serum creatinine was raised in 17% of cases. Serum proteins levels were reduced in 34.5%. Activated partial thromboplastin clotting time was elevated in 58.7% cases. Conclusion: This study elucidates the altered laboratory findings in dengue viral infection that could facilitate appropriate management and monitor disease progression to prevent advancement to fatal forms. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge, Practice-based learning and improvement.