Dengue: underestimated cardiovascular impact?

Abstract

Viral infections can directly and indirectly affect the cardiovascular system, causing risks of events in the long term. Neglected emerging tropical viral infections, such as dengue virus (DENV) which causes the viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti. The epidemiology of DENV has changed due to global warming, so infections have been reported at higher latitudes. Major cardiovascular events (CVMEs) in dengue are associated with acute infection and are potentially preventable through early recognition of the clinical picture and vaccination. The risk of suffering from any of them is significantly higher in the immediate period of time after acute infection. Patients with dengue should be carefully monitored during the acute phase of the disease to ensure early recognition of symptoms. Early detection of myocardial damage should be a primary objective in patients with severe dengue, to prevent the development of multiple organ failure and death. The application of imaging should be guided by clinical judgment and physical examination findings. To date, there are no image-guided protocols for the personalized diagnosis and treatment of dengue. Finally, we must insist on the need to promote any community prevention measure that allows adequate control of the epidemic and reduces the current upward curve of cases and prevents progression to severe clinical conditions.