ASSOCIATION OF HEMATOCRIT-PLATELET INDEX AND HEMATOCRIT SHIFT WITH WARNING SIGNS AND HOSPITAL STAY IN DENGUE PATIENTS AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between hematocrit, platelet count, warning signs and duration of
hospitalization in indoor dengue patients.

Study Design: Analytical, cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medicine, Pakistan Air Force Hospital Islamabad and Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, AM College, Rawalpindi, from Sep 2019 to Jun 2020.

Methodology: A total of 100 indoor patients were recruited using convenience sampling. Their platelets, hema-
tocrit and warning signs were recorded on arrival in the hospital. First two parameters were checked every day for the whole duration of stay in the hospital. The WHO standard treatment of dengue was given to the patients. Patient were divided into two groups based upon duration of hospitalization using cut-off of 3 days. Linear regression was used to analyze association of hematocrit-platelet index and hematocrit shift with presence of one or more warning signs and duration of hospital stay.

Results: There was statistically significant difference in 3rd day Hematocrit Platelet Indices of patients with short and long hospital stay (p=0.003). 3rd day Hematocrit-platelet indices of patients with and without warning signs also showed statistically significant difference when compared with eachother (p=0.0001). It was stronger than Hematocrit Shift (p=0.82) and platelets considered alone.

Conclusion: Day 3 Hematocrit Platelet Indexis more strongly associated with warning signs and duration of stay rather than hematocrit alone. It means both need to be taken into account while monitoring dengue patients. Hematocrit platelet index for severity and duration of hospitalization while Hematocrit shift for fluid therapy.