Abstract:
Chikungunya fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans by the bite of
infected mosquitoes. Typical chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection results in an
acute febrile illness characterized by severe joint pain and rash. Although
chikungunya is generally not considered life threatening, atypical clinical
manifestations resulting in significant morbidity have been documented,
especially during epidemics. This review describes atypical manifestations
following CHIKV infection reported in the literature, categorized as
neurological, cardiovascular, skin, ocular, renal and other manifestations. The
importance of vertical transmission from an infected mother resulting in neonatal
infection is also highlighted. CHIKV infection can result in severe illness
needing intensive care, with significant mortality. While there are many deaths
reported which are directly attributable to CHIKV infection, background mortality
is also increased during epidemics. In this context, considering CHIKV infection
a benign and non fatal illness has to be revisited.
