Continuous fever

A type of fever characterized by a persistent elevation in body temperature

Continuous Fever

Illustration of fever progression

A continuous fever is a type of fever where the body temperature remains consistently elevated above the normal range throughout the day, with minimal fluctuations. This pattern of fever is often associated with certain infections and medical conditions.

Characteristics

In continuous fever, the body temperature does not return to normal at any point during the day. The fluctuations in temperature are typically less than 1°C (1.8°F) over a 24-hour period. This is in contrast to other types of fever, such as intermittent fever or remittent fever, where the temperature may vary more significantly.

Causes

Continuous fever can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Typhoid fever
• Brucellosis
• Lobar pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections

These conditions often involve persistent infections that lead to a sustained immune response, resulting in continuous fever.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of continuous fever involves the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms. The hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, is influenced by pyrogens—substances that induce fever. In continuous fever, the presence of persistent pyrogens keeps the hypothalamic set point elevated, leading to sustained fever.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of continuous fever involves:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests to identify infectious agents
• Imaging studies if necessary

Treatment

The treatment of continuous fever focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antipyretics to reduce fever
• Supportive care, such as hydration and rest

Related pages

• Fever
• Intermittent fever
• Remittent fever
• Pyrexia