What Causes Stool Discolouration While Treating Dengue?

Posted on Wed, 21 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 21 Oct 2015 Answered on

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My niece has dengue , 12 yrs old. She noticed black stool today. Her platelet count dropped little from 1.5 to 1.3, fever under 100' now. It is her 4 th day. Is it something to worry about??

Answered by Dr. Archana Verma (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Black tarry stools known as malena

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to the HCM

I understand your concerns but don't worry. Black stools ( malena) in a known case of dengue can be due to further fall in platelets or bleeding tendency leading to bleeding in gastrointestinal tract. These complications occur more often on day 3-5 when fever comes down.

I would recommend you to visit a pediatrician for proper clinical examination to rule out severe dengue. They may advice for a repeat CBC and stool examination. If severe then it's advisable to go for inpatient care till the condition improves.

A good clinical care can cure this condition easily.

Hopefully this will help you. I would be happy to help you in any further questions.
Take care

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar