Therapeutic utility of platelet concentrate transfusion in altering haematological profiles among individuals with dengue-associated breakbone fever: A comprehensive narrative analysis

Breakbone fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness, is characterized by a spectrum of hematologic abnormalities, most notably thrombocytopenia, which is often a key determinant in clinical decision-making. Platelet transfusion is frequently administered to correct severe thrombocytopenia and prevent hemorrhagic complications, yet its role in modifying hematologic profiles and improving outcomes in dengue remains controversial. The present review summarizes evidence on platelet transfusion effects on platelet indices and leukocyte dynamics, including counts and immune responses. A comprehensive search across PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science was conducted. Studies meeting defined inclusion and exclusion criteria on platelet transfusion were analyzed. Total 9 studies with 1,849 participants with the mean age of 38.32±11.21 years were included for analysis. Findings indicate that transfusion reliably produces short-term increases in platelet count and plateletcrit, while effects on mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width are variable and often influenced by donor characteristics and storage conditions. Leukocyte alterations post-transfusion are typically modest and transient, with limited clinical relevance. Evidence questions prophylactic transfusion’s benefit in stable patients due to risks and costs. Gaps include unclear transfusion thresholds, limited immunologic insight, and poor cost-effectiveness evaluation. Future research should prioritize multicenter trials, mechanistic studies, comprehensive hematologic profiling, and standardized reporting to guide evidence-based transfusion practices. The review emphasizes judicious platelet transfusion to enhance safety and resource efficiency.