A study on the new onset of diabetes mellitus in patients with dengue fever

Abstract

Background: Dengue, the most widespread arboviral illness globally, has seen a 4.5-fold increase in incidence from 1990 to 2017. The primary vector, Aedes aegypti, thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, impacting over 100 countries. Dengue has four serotypes, causing symptoms from mild fever to severe dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Diabetes mellitus (DM), prevalent in dengue-endemic areas, exacerbates dengue symptoms due to compromised immunity and chronic inflammation. Understanding the link between severe dengue and diabetes is critical amid rising prevalence.Aim of the study: This study reports the findings of newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes mellitus among patients previously diagnosed with dengue fever.Methods: The study conducted at North Bengal Medical College Hospital, Sirajganj, from June to November 2023, observed 320 hospital-admitted patients with confirmed dengue and diabetes. It involved both descriptive and analytic elements, utilizing purposive sampling. Participants met inclusion criteria of fever, positive NS1 and/or IgM antibodies for dengue, and confirmed diabetes mellitus. Random fasting blood glucose levels were checked for all patients, and confirmed by oral glucose tolerance test. Result: The majority of patients were aged 30-59 (73.75%), with more males (65%) than females (35%). Service holders made up 47.5%, housewives 20%, and unemployed individuals 15%. Half were low-income, 45% middle-income, and 5% high-income. Most had Type 2 diabetes (92.5%). Fever was the most common symptom (91.25%), followed by petechiae, bone pain, headache, and rashes. Hypertension was the most frequent comorbidity (51.25%). Recovery within three days was seen in 33.33% of Type 1 and 16.22% of Type 2 diabetes patients. Recovery beyond three days occurred in 66.67% of Type 1 and 78.38% of Type 2 diabetes patients.Conclusion: This study finds a notable prevalence of Type 2 diabetes among dengue fever patients, especially middle-aged to older males. Common symptoms include fever, bone pain, and petechiae. Hypertension worsens severity. Dengue may trigger diabetes, emphasizing the need for rigorous glycemic monitoring in these patients to reduce complications.