Dengue Fever Complicated by Pneumonia in Pregnancy: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Nov 13;16(11):e73608. doi: 10.7759/cureus.73608. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Abstract

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, was the most prevalent arthropod-borne illness globally and posed a significant public health challenge due to its increasing incidence and potential complications. While most patients recovered within one to two weeks, some cases progressed to severe dengue, requiring hospitalization. This case report described a 39-year-old pregnant woman at 27 weeks gestation who developed severe dengue fever complicated by bacterial pneumonia, leading to ICU admission. She initially presented with fever, tachycardia, and vomiting, and her diagnosis was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Due to worsening respiratory symptoms, she was treated with oxygen and antibiotics, which stabilized her condition for discharge. This case underscored the need for vigilance in managing dengue during pregnancy, as secondary bacterial infections, though uncommon, could complicate treatment. Prompt recognition and early antibiotic intervention in high-risk patients were crucial for improving outcomes.

Keywords: dengue fever (df); dengue thrombocytopenia; infection in pregnancy; pneumonia; superimposed infections.

Publication types

  • Case Reports