Peripheral gangrene in a case of severe dengue

Abstract

We report the case of a 10.year.old male who developed gangrene of his fingers and toes following severe dengue fever complicated by disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Child developed bilateral dry gangrene of fingers and toes. All the peripheral pulses of the affected limbs were palpable. The child had no history of taking B.blockers, ergot alkaloids or other related medications. Color Doppler of peripheral arterial and venous systems of all limbs indicated normal flow. Blood was positive for D.dimers and fibrin degradation products. The patient was managed with broad spectrum antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, low molecular weight heparin, blood transfusions, fresh frozen plasma and other supportive measures. Peripheral gangrene seen in DIC associated with dengue is very rare and carries a higher mortality.

Key words: Disseminated intravascular coagulation, peripheral gangrene, severe dengue