Is low platelet a sign of dengue?

Question

Hi doctor,

My father has nagging dry cough for about one month. Our physician has doubted it as allergic bronchitis and the x-ray also justifies the same. As per today, his platelet count is 125000. Is there anything to worry? Or is this a sign of dengue? Myself and my brother have just recovered from dengue. However, my father does not have a fever. Currently, he is on Nebicard 2.5 for BP, Daztor for triglyceride, Bro-Zedex and Montair LC.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. For dengue, the first and the foremost thing to be present is fever, Dengue is not diagnosed only on the basis of platelet count. It is important to note that mild thrombocytopenia(low platelet count) is common in older adults. To determine the presence of dengue, it is crucial to monitor the trend of platelet count over the next few days, observing if it remains constant or decreases. Regarding the cough treatment, it appears to be appropriate. Additional measures such as gargling and steam inhalation can be beneficial. If the individual produces sputum later on, consider getting a sputum examination done for gram stain and AFB (acid-fast bacilli) to further assess the condition.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. No need to worry excessively as you monitor the platelet trend. It's important to remember that dengue is unlikely without fever. Thrombocytopenia can be caused by various factors, but since the other cell counts are normal, there might not be any serious underlying disease. There is no need to panic; simply get the recommended tests done and allow the medication to take its course. Stay vigilant and follow up with the necessary medical care.