Severe dengue in pediatrics: 10 cases in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Abstract

Introduction. In pediatrics, dengue is usually oligosymptomatic; however, severe cases may occur. The objective is to describe severe dengue cases admitted to a pediatric hospital during the 2023-2024 dengue outbreak. Population and methods. A retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study included all patients with severe dengue. Results. Of the 205 patients hospitalized for dengue, 10 cases corresponded to severe dengue, of which 5 had no risk factors. The median age was 12 years. Seven patients required intensive care; 6 had transaminase values higher than 1000 U/L, and one patient died. Regarding serotyping, 7 cases corresponded to DEN-2. Conclusion. Severe dengue in pediatrics can occur with or without comorbidities in all age groups. The most affected target organ was the liver, although encephalitis and myocarditis may occur.