Analysis of Prognostic Indicators in Fever Associated with Thrombocytopenia Among Children Up to 12 Years

<jats:p>Fever associated with thrombocytopenia is a common clinical presentation in paediatric practice, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of infectious diseases. This study aimed to analyse prognostic indicators and clinical outcomes in children up to 12 years presenting with fever and thrombocytopenia. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 150 children admitted with fever (&gt;99.9°F) and platelet counts below 150,000/µL at Pushpagiri Medical College and Hospital Research Institute, Kerala. Detailed clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations, and outcome assessment were performed. Dengue fever emerged as the most prevalent etiology (41.3%), followed by non-dengue viral fever (25.3%), enteric fever (14%), sepsis (11.4%), and malaria (8%). Most children exhibited mild to moderate thrombocytopenia (74%). The majority (74.7%) improved with supportive management, while 18.7% required ICU admission. Complications such as bleeding or shock occurred in 5.3% of cases, and the mortality rate was 1.3%. Younger age groups and severe thrombocytopenia were more frequently associated with adverse outcomes. The findings underscore the need for early identification of high-risk children, careful monitoring, and timely intervention to prevent complications. Strengthening diagnostic practices and clinician awareness can significantly improve outcomes in paediatric febrile thrombocytopenia. Keywords: Fever; Thrombocytopenia; Children; Prognostic indicators; Dengue fever; Paediatric infections; Platelet count; Clinical outcomes; Complications; ICU admission.</jats:p>