Oral manifestations of dengue fever

Background: Dengue is a life­threatening viral infection which has become an epidemic in India in the postmonsoon period (August­November). It mostly associated with nonspecific fever and rashes, arthralgia, myalgia, and thrombocytopenia in severe cases. Objective: This study aimed to study the oral manifestations of dengue fever and to observe the various features of oral presentation then to validate the significance and importance of oralmanifestation in the diagnosis of dengue fever.Materials and Methods: Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were subjected to detailed history, oral examination, and relevant investigations. Results: Intraoral manifestations were present in 24 (48%) patients, anf these included petechiae (29.2%), bleeding gums (16.6%), ulcer (4.2%), dryness of mouth (4.2%), and combined features (45.8%). Extraoral manifestations were present in 4% of the cases. Conclusion: This study highlights the thrombocytopenia related oral haemosrrhagic manifestations of dengue fever

A Survey of the Management of Thrombocytopaenic Purpura in South Africa : do you need Guidelines for Developing Countries ?

AIM: To describe the management of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in South Africa. METHODS: A prospective survey was sent to 410 doctors in the country; including 4 different scenarios in children newly diagnosed with ITP; concerning the diagnosis and management. RESULTS: Steroids were the first line of choice in treating ITP. Anti-D immunoglobulin was not considered in the management and most of the practitioners would perform a bone marrow aspiration even if no treatment with steroids will be given. The vast majority of the patients will be treated in the hospital. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first study done in South Africa (and in Africa) and it shows a great variation in the management practice of children with newly diagnosed ITP. Prospective studies in developing countries where various constraints to health care delivery exist are required to produce evidence based recommendations for this patient group