Aseptic fever is spelled /əˈsɛptɪk ˈfiːvər/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet. The word "aseptic" refers to a condition without infection, and "fever" is an elevation in body temperature. This term is used to describe a fever without a known infectious cause, often resulting from non-infectious conditions such as autoimmune disorders, malignancies or drug reactions. Accurate spelling of medical terms is essential for effective communication between healthcare professionals and helps to avoid confusion, misinterpretation or medical errors.
Aseptic fever is a medical term used to describe a condition in which a person experiences an elevation in body temperature without the presence of an infection. The term "aseptic" refers to the absence of pathogens, meaning that the fever is unrelated to an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.
Aseptic fever can be caused by a variety of non-infectious factors such as inflammatory conditions, tissue injury, autoimmune disorders, certain medications, or malignancies. In these cases, the body's immune system becomes activated and releases chemicals called cytokines, which can lead to an increase in body temperature.
The symptoms of aseptic fever are similar to those of a fever caused by an infection, including a high body temperature, chills, sweating, fatigue, and general malaise. However, without the presence of an infection, it may be more difficult to identify the underlying cause of the fever.
To diagnose aseptic fever, healthcare professionals often conduct a thorough medical examination, review the patient's medical history, and perform additional tests such as blood work, imaging scans, or biopsies to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment for aseptic fever focuses on addressing the underlying condition that is causing the fever. This may involve the use of medications to control inflammation, managing autoimmune disorders, or adjusting medications that may be causing the fever. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Pyrexia accompanied with malaise due to the absorption of dead, but not putrefactive, tissue following an injury.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "aseptic fever" is derived from two main components: "aseptic" and "fever".
The word "aseptic" is derived from the Greek word "a-" meaning "without" and "septikós" meaning "putrefaction". It refers to the absence of germs or microorganisms that can cause infection or decay.
The term "fever" comes from the Old English word "fefer" and the Latin word "febris", both meaning "fever" or "heat". It is used to describe an elevated body temperature often associated with an immune response to infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions.
When combined, "aseptic fever" describes a condition where a person experiences an elevated body temperature without evidence of a bacterial or fungal infection. It is often associated with non-infectious causes such as autoimmune disorders, malignancies, drug reactions, or tissue injury.