Optical coherence tomography to evaluate dengue.

Dear Editor,

The recent report you published on the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate dengue was very interesting [1]. Rhee and Han [1] concluded that "Follow-up examination of individuals with dengue fever and associated visual impairment should involve the use of OCT to evaluate visual acuity and visual field change." In fact, the ocular complications of dengue are typically overlooked, as a proper examination is rarely performed. As Mendes et al. [2] noted, "Dengue fever can lead to visual impairment detectable by ophthalmological exams such as angiography, retinography, and OCT imaging, as well as retinal and cortical electrophysiology." Severe dengue, dengue shock, also tends to cause complications [3]. Close follow-up of these patients is required and ocular examination should be included in the clinical practice guidelines.

Dear colleagues,

We were encouraged to your comment and thank for your concern. As you know that South Korea is not endemic region of dengue fever, so we cannot meet dengue fever patient usually. Fortunately, I could find three patients in a short period. Recently, more and more Korean and people lived in non-endemic area visit other country, so we have more chance to meet dengue fever patients. Dengue fever and dengue with hemorrhagic manifestation are recognized as the world's second most prevalent infection in tropical and subtropical regions, after malaria, but the first in the American continent [1]. That and ophthalmic examination had been overlooked. Your suggestion that ocular examination should be included in the clinical practice guidelines must be very helpful for dengue fever patient.