
Overview:
Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO) is a condition where a patient experiences a persistent fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher for more than three weeks without an identifiable cause despite medical evaluation. PUO can be due to infections, inflammatory diseases, malignancies, or other systemic disorders.
Causes:
Common causes include bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections, autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, malignancies such as leukemia or lymphoma, and metabolic diseases. In some cases, prolonged drug reactions or undiagnosed conditions can contribute to PUO.
Symptoms:
The main symptom is prolonged fever, often accompanied by fatigue, night sweats, weight loss, chills, muscle aches, and weakness. Depending on the underlying cause, other symptoms like skin rashes, joint pain, or swelling may also occur.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the diagnosis. It may involve antibiotics for infections, corticosteroids for inflammatory conditions, chemotherapy for malignancies, or symptomatic management for fever and discomfort. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases.
Precautions:
Early medical consultation is crucial for persistent fever. Avoiding self-medication and maintaining hygiene can help prevent infectious causes. Managing existing health conditions properly reduces complications.
Prevention:
Routine health checkups, vaccinations, and prompt treatment of infections can help prevent PUO.
For expert diagnosis and treatment of PUO, visit The KDM Hospital in Lucknow, offering ambulance services, budget-friendly care, Ayushman card acceptance, and 24/7 doctor availability.