Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a serious illness caused by the dengue virus spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

A key sign of DHF infection is a drop in platelet count that can become dangerously low.

Why does dengue fever lower platelet levels?

The dengue virus entering the body can infect and bind to platelets in the bloodstream.

The virus attaches to platelets, replicates, and damages them. These damaged platelets then trigger the destruction of other normal platelets.

In addition, the body’s immune system fighting the dengue virus infection may inadvertently attack the infected platelets.

The dengue virus also suppresses bone marrow function in producing new platelets, leading to a continual decrease in platelet count.

Important Platelet Level for Dengue Fever

Platelets help the blood clot, and in dengue fever patients, their levels can drop to dangerous lows.

Regular platelet checks are key inmonitoring the progress of the disease and determining the severity of DHF in patients.

Mild Dengue Fever Platelet Count

In mild DHF cases, the platelet count is within the range of 140,000 to 101,000 cells per microliter of blood.

At this stage, patients generally still show mild symptoms such as sudden fever and muscle pain. Although platelets have begun to decrease, blood clotting function can still operate well as the reduction is not yet significant.

– Moderate Dengue Fever Platelet Threshold

Moderate thrombocytopenia occurs when the platelet count is within the range of 100,000 to 51,000 cells per microliter of blood. At this phase, patients begin to show more pronounced symptoms such as:

  • High fever lasting 2-7 days
  • Headache, especially in the retro-orbital area
  • Appearance of petechiae or red spots on the skin
  • Significant muscle and joint pain
  • Nausea and vomiting

– Severe Dengue Fever Critical Platelet Threshold

A critical or severe condition occurs when platelets drop drastically below 20,000 cells per microliter of blood. At this level, the risk of internal bleeding and serious complications significantly increases. Patients may experience symptoms such as:

  • Spontaneous bleeding from the gums and nose
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Hematuria (blood in urine)
  • Plasma leakage that can cause hypovolemic shock
  • Impairment of vital organ functions
  • High risk of Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS)

In this critical phase, strict monitoring in a hospital is mandatory to prevent life-threatening complications. Platelet tests should be conducted every 6–12 hours to monitor the patient’s condition.

– Dangers of Platelet Decrease During Dengue Fever

A decrease in platelets during DHF can lead to various serious complications that threaten life.

When platelets drop drastically, the body loses its ability to clot blood, posing a significant risk of bleeding.

Major complications that can occur include:

  • Internal bleeding in vital organs
  • Plasma leakage that can cause hypovolemic shock
  • Multi Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS)
  • Acute neurological disorders
  • Coagulopathy that can trigger DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation)

Best Dengue Fever Testing and Vaccination Sites

Tirta Medical Centre (TMC) is a trusted clinic that provides dengue fever testing and vaccination services with the highest standards of care in Indonesia. Here are some of the dengue fever tests and their prices at TMC:

  • Dengue NS1 Test (Rapid): IDR 245,000
  • Anti-Dengue IgM Test: IDR 703,000
  • Anti-Dengue IgG Test: IDR 741,000

Besides dengue fever tests, TMC offers two types of dengue vaccine, QDenga and Dengvaxia, with the following prices:

  • DBD Vaccine QDenga: IDR 649,000
  • DBD Vaccine Package (QDenga 2 Doses): IDR 1,250,000
  • DBD Vaccine (Dengvaxia 0.5 ml): IDR 1,400,000

Note: Prices are subject to change at any time. Tirta Friends can contact us for updates on dengue testing costs, dengue vaccinations, or to make online reservations here:

Questions & Reservations

How to Increase Platelets During Dengue Fever

Several medical interventions and nutritional supports can help increase platelet levels:

Medical Interventions

  • Platelet transfusion as indicated
  • Intravenous fluid therapy (IV)
  • Close monitoring of hematological status

Nutritional Support

  • Consuming foods rich in Vitamin K such as green vegetables
  • High-quality protein intake
  • Foods rich in Vitamin C and folate
  • Optimal hydration with 2.5-3 liters of fluid intake per day

Dengue Fever Management

Managing dengue fever requires a comprehensive approach focused on supportive therapy and complication prevention. DBD management is divided into three main phases according to the disease’s progression.

1. Initial Phase (Fever Phase)

  • Monitoring vital signs every 4-6 hours to detect changes in the patient’s condition
  • Administration of antipyretics (paracetamol) to control fever, avoiding the use of NSAIDs
  • Ensuring adequate oral hydration with electrolyte fluids
  • Recommending complete rest to prevent fatigue

2. Critical Phase

  • Parenteral fluid therapy using crystalloids
  • Close monitoring of hemodynamic status and signs of plasma leakage
  • Regular evaluation of vital organ functions and laboratory tests
  • Blood component transfusion if there is a clear indication
  • Immediate shock management if it occurs with appropriate fluid resuscitation

    3. Recovery Phase

    • Gradual fluid adjustment to prevent overload
    • Gradual rehabilitation program according to the patient’s condition
    • Education on preventing relapses and recognizing danger signs
    • Regular follow-ups to monitor recovery

    DBD management requires strict monitoring for signs of deterioration and complications. Patients with danger signs must be immediately referred to adequate health facilities for intensive care.

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