Dengue fever leading to acute dengue hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis

Abstract

Rationale: Dengue fever is a prevalent tropical infectious disease that has a broad panorama of presentations from mild febrile illness to life-threatening manifestations in the form of dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Patient's concerns: A 20-year-old male presented with a 2-day history of fever, multiple episodes of vomiting, and altered sensorium. Diagnosis: Dengue fever leading to acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis. Interventions: Multiple transfusions of single donor platelets, intravenous methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin, anti-seizure prophylaxis, and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Outcomes: Repeat brain magnetic resonance imaging showed resolution of lesions. The patient was subsequently discharged from the hospital in a healthy state. Lessons: This report helps us to gain a better understanding of the patient's presentation, which will help to improve the timely recognition and prevention of this rare devastating presentation.