DARE AND WAR , THOUGH NOT RARE DENGUE ENCEPHALITIS

Abstract

Dengue is a common viral infection worldwide with presentation varying from clinically silent infection to dengue fever, dengue hemorrhagic fever, and severe fulminant dengue shock syndrome. Neurological manifestation usually results from multisystem dysfunction secondary to vascular leak. Presentation as hemorrhagic encephalitis is very rare. Here we present the case of a 7 months-old male child  admitted with fever, rashes, convulsion. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serology were positive for IgM antibodies to  dengue viral antigen. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multifocal T1, T2 and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensities in bilateral  cerebral parenchyma including basal ganglia. Hemorrhagic foci was seen in both basal ganglia. child was diagnosed as dengue encephalitis. Supportive management was given. Child improved.