Comorbidity of Dengue and Hereditary Spherocytosis in an 18-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is one of the most common non-immune hemolytic anemias, and it’s characterized by defects in erythrocyte membrane proteins that result in increased red blood cell fragility and hemolysis. Dengue is an acute viral infection frequently associated with hematologic alterations, including thrombocytopenia and plasma leakage. The coexistence of dengue infection and HS has rarely been reported in the literature. In this report, we describe the case of an 18-year-old male with a history of HS, diagnosed during childhood, who presented with a five-day history of fever and headache. Serologic testing confirmed dengue infection. Laboratory studies revealed severe anemia and thrombocytopenia. Peripheral blood smear showed anisocytosis and spherocytes. Imaging studies demonstrated hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, gallbladder wall edema, and free intraperitoneal fluid. The patient improved with supportive management (such as intravenous Hartmann solution and the transfusion of two red blood cell concentrates) and was discharged without complications. This case highlights a rare comorbidity that exacerbates the hematologic abnormalities in patients with dengue infection.