skip to main content

Dengue Fever — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyInfectious DiseasesDengue FeverRACP Adult Medicine

A 35-year-old woman presents with high fever, severe headache, retro-orbital pain, arthralgia, and a maculopapular rash. She returned from Indonesia 5 days ago. Platelet count is 65 × 10⁹/L and haematocrit is rising. NS1 antigen is positive. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Dengue fever

Fever with retro-orbital pain, arthralgia, rash, thrombocytopenia, and rising haematocrit after travel to Southeast Asia with positive NS1 antigen is diagnostic of dengue fever. Rising haematocrit indicates plasma leakage (warning sign for severe dengue). Management is supportive with close monitoring for DHF/DSS. Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs.

Reference: eTG Antibiotic – 2025 – Dengue (new topic); WHO 2024 Dengue Guidelines