Two cases of severe neonatal dengue fever during an outbreak in Kolkata city

Abstract

Neonates with transplacentally acquired dengue infection often present with subtle features. We report two cases of severe neonatal dengue admitted during an outbreak in Kolkata. Both the mothers tested positive for dengue. Both neonates had thrombocytopenia, elevated liver aminotransferases, progressive pallor, and third space fluid loss. One neonate required inotropic support (dopamine infusion) to manage the shock while the other neonate had to be put on continuous positive airway pressure to manage the increasing respiratory distress. Both patients were successfully managed. Neonatal dengue is an important differential diagnosis of neonatal sepsis during an outbreak. Early diagnosis and appropriate fluid resuscitation can help in avoiding complications.