Manifestations of dengue in head computed tomography

Introduction: Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by arthropods (Aedes aegypti). The northeastern region of Argentina is one of the most affected, with an epidemic outbreak during the 2023-2024 summer period. Although rare, the disease can affect the central nervous system. Objectives: This study aims to characterize brain computed tomography (CT) findings in dengue patients admitted at a central hospital, following the WHO severity criteria and their impact on disease outcomes. Method: An observational, retrospective and analytical study was carried out on patients admitted for dengue in a referral hospital, confirmed by PCR or IgM, between 01/12/2023 and 28/04/2024, in whom CBT was performed. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected, and a bivariate statistical analysis was performed. Results: Of 219 patients hospitalized, only 45 were studied with CT and five cases with acute lesions were identified. All had severe dengue, the mean age was 48 years and 80% were men. Acute lesions in CBT were associated with a higher risk of mortality (RR: 6.4; 95%CI: 2.53-16.22; p = 0.002). Conclusions: Brain CT findings in dengue patients are heterogeneous and infrequent, but present in severe cases and associated with high mortality. Thus, CT is useful for the management and monitoring of patients with severe dengue.