Detection of Dengue Fever Using Atypical Lymphocyte Flags in Automated Hematological Analyzers (Code-T0267)

Introduction: Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications, yet existing diagnostic tools have limitations in detecting all cases. Recent studies suggest that the presence of "atypical lymphocyte" flags in automated hematological analyzers may serve as a potential early marker for dengue fever. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between atypical lymphocytes and dengue fever and determine their diagnostic utility.

Aims and Objectives:

1. To find the correlation of atypical lymphocytes flag in Automated Hematological Analyzer and Dengue cases
2. To calculate a cut-off value of these atypical lymphocytes for differentiation of Dengue from other causes of AFI
3. To find the correlation of atypical lymphocytes with the disease severity in Dengue patients

.Methods: This hospital-based case-control study was conducted at the Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University. A total of 150 patients (75 cases and 75 controls) with febrile illness were included. Cases were confirmed dengue patients (NS1 antigen or IgM positive), while controls were febrile patients negative for dengue serology. Blood samples were analyzed using the CELL-DYN RUBY Hematology System to assess atypical lymphocyte counts. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v20.0.

Results: A significant correlation was found between atypical lymphocyte counts and dengue fever, with higher levels observed in severe cases. A diagnostic cut-off value was determined using ROC analysis, enhancing early detection.

Conclusion: Atypical lymphocyte counts in automated hematological analyzers show promise as a rapid and cost-effective diagnostic marker for dengue fever. Further validation studies may establish this parameter as a routine screening tool.

Keywords: Dengue fever, Atypical lymphocytes, Hematological analyzers, Acute febrile illness, Early diagnosis, Disease severity