‘Nitric Oxide’ A Dual Performer in Dengue Virus Infection

 The study was conducted to assess the role of Nitric Oxide (NO) in the pathogenesis of Dengue fever (DF).

 A total of 150 patients with positive Dengue serology and 50 candidates as controls in the age group of 15-65 years were included in the study. NO levels were measured by Griess Nitrate Method (Cadmium granules modified).

The rise in NO was observed in 24 (20.86%) patients out of 115 DF patients, while it was raised in only 01 (2.8%) case out of 35 patients of DHF and the difference was observed to be statistically significant. NO level was within normal limits (Normal Range- 24.8-77.6µmol/L) in 92% (n=50) healthy controls and was raised in (NO value>77.66µmol/L) 4% healthy controls. A positive correlation was observed in the serum NO levels with platelet count. The majority of the patients in the study (41.33%) were in the age group of 21-30 years of age, followed by were < 20 yrs (30%) and 31-40 yrs (12.67%). Male:female ratio observed was 1.78:1. DF was diagnosed in 115 (76.67%) patients, while DHF was diagnosed in 35 (23.33%) patients, while no case of DSS was diagnosed.

 NO plays a protective role in DF, while in DHF patients, the absence of rising NO levels may be one of the contributory factors leading to the progression of the disease and increased morbidity. NO levels can guide the physician about the evolution of a case of Dengue.