E-fast in patients with dengue infection in medical ward: a pilot study

Background Dengue is a major tropical infection in Malaysia. It has several presentations and may progress to severe illness. Mortality is high if left unsupported. Warning Signs (WS) ; nausea, vomiting abdominal pain, bleeding and leaking syndrome (LS) (ascites and pleural effusion) are crucial in dengue assessment. Abdominal pain and tenderness, gastrointestinal bleed, jaundice, hepatomegaly and ascites are predictors of severe illness and require intensive care support as mentioned in the literatures. At present, E-FAST is used widely in emergency unit to aid diagnosis and management in acute emergency and trauma. It has not been used in dengue infection to detect leaking syndrome. The clinical sign of leaking syndrome can be subtle if minimal. Early detection will lead to closer monitoring and anticipation of further change of clinical condition, hence aid in management of dengue.