Severe Dengue Compensated Shock — When Fluid Bolus Therapy Has Not Achieved Clinical Improvement

This protocol covers patients with severe dengue in compensated shock: systolic pressure is maintained, but signs of reduced perfusion persist — pulse pressure below 20 mmHg and raised haematocrit. Severe plasma leakage driving dengue shock and potential fluid accumulation with respiratory distress defines this presentation. The patient has already received a resuscitation attempt and has not met expected clinical targets.

Clinical Scenario

Severe dengue with compensated shock — systolic pressure maintained alongside clear signs of reduced peripheral perfusion, pulse pressure below 20 mmHg, and raised haematocrit. This reflects severe plasma leakage that may lead to dengue shock and/or fluid accumulation with respiratory distress.

Previous Treatment Did Not Work

Initial fluid resuscitation — with crystalloid or colloid boluses, or blood product support where indicated — was administered. A second bolus was given without achieving the required clinical targets: blood pressure improvement, pulse pressure improvement, haematocrit decrease, improved urine output, and normalisation of pulse rate. This protocol defines the next step after that resuscitation strategy has been insufficient.

Next-Step Approach (Overview Only)

When hypotension persists after the second bolus, the protocol involves consideration of circulatory support alongside a structured diagnostic workup — to systematically exclude cardiogenic shock, septic shock, metabolic causes, and organ dysfunction before proceeding. The specific intervention, thresholds, and sequence are detailed in the full evidence-based regimen.

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References

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