Breakbone fever

Definition

Breakbone fever, also known as dengue fever, is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. It leads to severe flu-like symptoms and can affect the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dengue fever is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti.
2. There are four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, DENV-4), and infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that specific serotype.
3. Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain (hence 'breakbone'), rash, and mild bleeding.
4. Severe forms of dengue fever can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which can be fatal if not promptly treated.
5. The diagnosis of dengue fever is typically confirmed through blood tests that detect the presence of the virus or antibodies produced in response to it.

Review Questions

• What type of mosquito is primarily responsible for transmitting dengue fever?
• What are the main symptoms associated with breakbone fever?
• How many serotypes of the dengue virus exist?

Related terms

Aedes aegypti: A species of mosquito that transmits viruses such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: A severe form of dengue characterized by bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and low platelet count.

Serotype: A distinct variation within a species of bacteria or viruses based on antigens present on its surface.