What is the characteristic laboratory finding in a dengue fever infection?

Thrombocytopenia is the characteristic laboratory finding in dengue fever infection. This condition refers to a lower than normal platelet count in the blood. In dengue fever, the virus can affect the bone marrow and lead to decreased production of platelets, which are crucial for normal blood clotting. As the disease progresses, especially during the critical phase, patients may experience further reduction in platelet counts, which can put them at risk for bleeding complications.

This laboratory finding is significant because it can help clinicians differentiate dengue from other acute febrile illnesses. Monitoring platelet counts is essential in managing dengue patients, as severe thrombocytopenia can indicate a more severe form of the disease, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever. Thus, the presence of thrombocytopenia is a critical marker that guides clinical decisions and patient management in dengue infections.