Which laboratory finding best reflects the plasma leakage that defines severe dengue during the critical phase?

• A Falling haematocrit with falling platelet count
• B Rising haematocrit despite stable haemoglobin concentration ✓
• C Rising white cell count with left shift
• D Isolated transaminase elevation above 1000 U/L

Explanation

Leakage of plasma into the interstitium and serous cavities concentrates intravascular red cells, so serially rising packed cell volume (haematocrit) is the most practical bedside marker of plasma leakage; it also guides fluid therapy. Platelet decline tracks severity but does not measure leak. Rising WBC suggests bacterial infection, and extreme transaminase elevation points to acute liver injury rather than capillary leak. Haematocrit must be interpreted against baseline values.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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