General description

Dengue fever, also known as "break-bone fever," is a viral infection transmitted through the bites of mosquitoes, specifically the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species, commonly found in tropical and subtropical climates.

Following an incubation period of 2–14 days (typically 3–7 days), dengue fever begins abruptly with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and nausea. About 3–4 days after the onset of symptoms, a rash often appears on the chest and torso, spreading across the body. Most people with dengue experience mild or no symptoms, and recovery usually occurs within 1–2 weeks without lasting effects. However, in some cases, particularly with a second infection, dengue can become severe, leading to symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, and signs of bleeding, including bleeding gums or nose. These severe cases require immediate medical attention, as complications can be serious and, though rare, potentially fatal.

Radiographic features

T2WI, FLAIR, DWI, T2*WI, and SWI show a characteristic double doughnut sign, with peripheral hyperintensity and central hypointensity with thalamic swellings. This appearance is thought to result from bilateral thalamic hemorrhages within the lesion, surrounded by edema.