Dengue in Pregnancy: A Southeast Asian Perspective

Dengue cases have been rising in recent years. In 2019 alone, over 658,301 of the 5.6 million reported cases originated from Southeast Asia (SEA). Research has also shown detrimental outcomes for pregnant infected women. Despite this, existing literature describing dengue's effects on pregnancy in SEA is insufficient. Through this narrative review, we sought to describe dengue's effects on pregnancy systemically and emphasize the existing gaps in the literature. We extensively searched various journals cited in PubMed and Ovid Medline, national clinical practice guidelines, and governmental reports. Dengue in pregnancy increases the risk of pre-eclampsia, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), fetal distress, preterm delivery, Caesarean delivery, and maternal mortality. Vertical transmission, intrauterine growth restriction, and stillbirth are possible sequelae of dengue in fetuses. We found that trimester-specific physiological impacts of dengue in pregnancy (to both mother and child) and investigations and management methods demanded further research, especially in the SEA region.

Automated summary

Dengue cases have been increasing in recent years, with over 658,301 reported cases originating from Southeast Asia in 2019 alone. Research has shown adverse effects of dengue on pregnant women, but there is insufficient literature on its impact in the SEA region. Through a narrative review, the study describes the effects of dengue on pregnancy and highlights the existing gaps in the literature. The findings emphasize the need for further research on trimester-specific impacts, investigations, and management methods, especially in Southeast Asia.