To describe the trajectories of cognitive function, biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial activation, and endothelial vasodilatory function over 6 months, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as measured by EQ-5D-5L over 12 months after discharge from hospital in survivors of dengue shock and septic shock.
Key Findings:
Survivors of dengue shock had high EQ-5D-5L scores (>90/100) at all time points and normalized MoCA scores by 3 months, indicating recovery in cognitive function.
Survivors of septic shock had lower EQ-5D-5L scores (median 80/100 at discharge) and persistent cognitive impairment, with MoCA scores never returning above normal thresholds.
Both groups exhibited elevated IL-6 and ferritin levels at all follow-up points compared to healthy controls, suggesting ongoing inflammation.
38% of dengue shock survivors and 62% of septic shock survivors had ferritin levels above the 95th percentile of healthy controls after 6 months, indicating significant inflammation.
Interpretation:
The study indicates persistent subclinical inflammation in survivors of dengue and septic shock in Vietnam, with implications for long-term health outcomes, including the need for monitoring and potential interventions.
Limitations:
The study was conducted in a single center, limiting generalizability to other settings.
Follow-up assessments were affected by COVID-19 restrictions, potentially impacting data completeness and participant retention.
Conclusion:
This study is the first to report on the long-term functional and cognitive outcomes in dengue and septic shock survivors in Vietnam, highlighting the need for further research into the clinical significance of persistent inflammation and its impact on recovery.
