How is dengue fever treated?
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Treatment Approaches for Dengue Fever
Symptomatic and Supportive Care
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease, primarily requires symptomatic and supportive treatment. This approach is the mainstay of dengue management, focusing on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Key strategies include maintaining fluid balance through oral or intravenous rehydration and using analgesics to manage pain and fever4 8. In severe cases, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, intensive medical care, including blood transfusions and intravenous fluids, is necessary to manage bleeding and maintain blood pressure8 10.
Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine
Recent studies have explored the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with conventional Western therapies. This combined approach has shown promise in improving patient outcomes. For instance, patients treated with both TCM and Western medicine experienced significant symptom resolution and were discharged without severe complications. Common TCM treatments included herbal formulas like Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang and Gui Pi Tang, which were effective in managing symptoms such as fever and muscle ache1.
Antiviral Agents
Despite extensive research, no specific antiviral drugs have been conclusively proven effective against dengue fever. The α-glucosidase inhibitor celgosivir was tested in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial but did not significantly reduce viral load or fever burden2. Similarly, the nucleoside analogue riamilovir showed some promise in a case report from Guinea, but broader clinical efficacy remains unproven7. The search for effective antiviral treatments continues, with ongoing studies targeting viral proteins like NS3 and NS57.
Herbal Remedies and Phytochemicals
Herbal remedies, particularly those derived from Carica papaya L. leaves, have been traditionally used to treat dengue fever. These remedies are believed to help prevent thrombocytopenia (a dangerous drop in platelet count) and boost immunity. Although widely used in some regions, such as Malaysia, their efficacy is still debated among medical professionals5. Additionally, various phytochemicals have shown potential in inhibiting dengue virus in laboratory settings, suggesting a rich source of future therapeutic agents6.
Vaccination and Preventive Measures
Preventive measures, including vaccination, are crucial in managing dengue fever. The Dengvaxia vaccine is currently the only licensed vaccine and is used in some South American countries. However, its approval is limited, and it is not widely accepted globally9. Preventing mosquito bites through the use of insect repellents, protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites remains a primary strategy in controlling the spread of dengue10.
Conclusion
The treatment of dengue fever primarily involves supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Integrating TCM with Western medicine shows potential benefits, while the search for effective antiviral drugs continues. Herbal remedies and phytochemicals offer promising avenues for future research. Preventive measures, including vaccination and mosquito control, are essential in reducing the incidence and impact of dengue fever.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Effects of Chinese and Western Medicine on Patients with Dengue Fever.
Integrating traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine may provide an appropriate treatment for dengue fever patients, reducing symptoms and promoting smooth discharge without deterioration to death or critical care.
RCTEfficacy and safety of celgosivir in patients with dengue fever (CELADEN): a phase 1b, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept trial.
Celgosivir is generally safe and well-tolerated, but does not significantly reduce viral load or fever burden in patients with dengue fever.
RCT
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedTreatment of dengue fever
Dengue fever is a complex and potentially fatal disease, with limited understanding of its pathophysiology, inability to control vector populations, and lack of specific therapy and vaccine development.
Highly CitedDengue fever: diagnosis and treatment
Dengue fever diagnosis relies on immunodiagnosis or viral study, with symptomatic and supportive treatment being the main therapeutic approach.
Highly CitedDengue Fever: Therapeutic Potential of Carica papaya L. Leaves
Carica papaya L. leaves show potential in treating dengue fever by promoting antiviral activities, preventing thrombocytopenia, and improving immunity.
Literature ReviewA systematic review on phytochemicals for the treatment of dengue
Phytochemicals from various species show potential for treating dengue fever, offering a safer, less harmful alternative to synthetic drugs.
Systematic Review[The experience in treatment of dengue fever using antiviral drug riamilovir in the Republic of Guinea (case report)].
Riamilovir shows positive results in treating dengue fever in the Republic of Guinea, highlighting its potential as a promising antiviral drug targeting NS5 protein.
Case ReportDengue fever: a Wikipedia clinical review
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne infectious tropical disease with symptoms similar to measles, and supportive treatment with rehydration and blood transfusions is recommended for mild to moderate cases.
Highly CitedHerbal remedies, vaccines and drugs for dengue fever: Emerging prevention and treatment strategies
Herbal remedies, vaccines, and antiviral agents show promise in preventing and treating dengue fever, but a permanent cure remains elusive.
Dengue Fever: Etiology, Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment
Early diagnosis, prevention measures, and supportive care are crucial in managing dengue fever and reducing its impact on public health in Nigeria.
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