Abstract :
Background: Dengue can be detected by various screening and confirmatory diagnostic methods. Among which
estimation of platelet count is one such screening test and a better parameter for early prediction of Dengue hemorrhagic
fever (DHF) and Dengue shock syndrome (DSS). The aim of the present study is to assess the platelet count increase by
natural foods among dengue patients especially papaya. Methods: 11 patients were admitted on 05-10-16. Fruits like
papaya, guava, apples in a small pieces and spoonful of grinded papaya leaves were given on 5-10-16, 6-10-16, 7-10-16
after every 8 hours. Patients were also supported with symptomatic treatment of Dengue. Blood samples of these patients
were collected in morning times and was sent to lab for estimation of platelets. Results: On admission platelet count of
these patients were between 12000 to 84000 cells per mcL of blood. Increase in Platelet count was observed among all
selected dengue patients. Conclusion: Papaya leaf extract improves thrombocytopenia condition, which in turn decreases
the incidence of Dengue hemorrhagic fever and Dengue shock syndrome. Still many more studies are needed to evaluate
the efficacy of papaya.
Keyword :
Dengue, Papaya, Platelet Count.