PLATELET COUNT & HAEMATOCRIT AS EARLY INDICATORS IN ACUTE DENGUE ILLNESS

BACKGROUND: The clinical diagnosis of dengue fever (DF), especially in the early phase of illness, is not easy. Laboratory findings such as thrombocytopenia and a rising hematocrit in DF cases are usually observed by day 3 or 4 of the illness. Several studies have revealed a variable prevalence of thrombocytopenia and rising in hematocrit. MATERIALS & METHODS: Blood samples of hospitalised all suspected dengue infected patients in different wards of P.D.U. HOSPITAL, RAJKOT was collected in EDTA anticoagulated bulb were analysed in Central Clinical Laboratory on automated Cell Counter for platelet count and hematocrit (HCT). Simultaneously, Patient’s demographic profile & clinical data & socioeconomic status were recorded. RESULTS: From all of the above data collected & studied, we found that, there is increase in number of cases of DENGUE infection during monsoon season. The disease has higher prevalence in rural area & with low socioeconomic class.The decrease in platelet count & rising hematocrit occurs in acute dengue illness. CONCLUSION: As it is possible to halt progression of DENGUE FEVER towards DENGUE HAEMORRHAGIC FEVER by using platelet & hematocrit like haematological parameters as early laboratory indicators of acute dengue illness and decrease morbidity & mortality due to Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever by