Predictive value of persistent NS1 antigen positivity beyond 3rd day for dengue haemorrhagic fever in Sri Lankan children.

Objective: Dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a major public health concern responsible for significant morbidity in both adult and paediatric populations in Sri Lanka. This study examined if persistent non structural protein 1 (NS1) antigen positivity beyond day 3 was predictive of the occurrence of dengue haemorrhagic fever. The patients were followed up during their in-hospital stay and the severity of the illness was classified according to the WHO classification. The NS1 antigen test was repeated after day 3 of the onset of illness, at least 2 days after the initial test.

Results: One hundred and fifty-seven patients were enrolled. Persistent NS1 antigen test positivity after day 3 of the illness was not predictive of subsequent development of DHF. Out of multiple other demographic and illness related factors assessed, only having a secondary dengue infection was associated with a high risk of DHF (relative risk = 3.077, 95% CI 1.361, 6.954). Persistent NS1 positivity on day 3 may not be indicative of disease severity. However results need to be confirmed by a larger study with quantitative NS1 testing.