BACKGROUND

Glutathione peroxidase (GP) can be used as a marker of oxidative stress in infectious diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between the levels of glutathione peroxidase (GP) and the manifestations and complications of dengue.

METHODS

Between April 2003 and December 2004, 161 patients with dengue were prospectively evaluated. In the first evaluation, within 48 and 96 hours of disease onset, a plasma sample was obtained to measure the GP levels. The association between GP levels, clinical manifestations and complications was evaluated during the follow up.

RESULTS

Mean GP values were 1198 U/L (95% confidence interval 1089-1306). Values greater than 1200 U/L were associated with headache, arthralgias and increased heart rate. There was a negative association between GP levels and serum triglycerides. During follow up, patients with GP >1200 U/L had a higher frequency of spontaneous hemorrhages. In a logistic regression analysis arthralgias, fever and increased heart rate, were independently associated with levels >1200 U/L.

CONCLUSIONS

GP levels was associated to some of the manifestations of dengue. This finding suggests that the intensity of oxidative stress can influence the clinical presentation of dengue.