HYPERPYREMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperpyrexia is a medical term used to define an extremely high body temperature above the normal range. It refers to a state where the body temperature surpasses 41.5 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit). This condition is often associated with severe health conditions or external factors, leading to an abnormal elevation in body temperature. It should be distinguished from simple fever, which typically falls within the range of 37 to 39 degrees Celsius (98.6 to 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit).
Hyperpyrexia is considered a medical emergency, as it can cause life-threatening complications. Some underlying causes of hyperpyrexia include severe infections, such as sepsis, or certain medical conditions like heat stroke. Additionally, adverse drug reactions, particularly to medications affecting the central nervous system, can induce hyperpyrexia. The symptoms of hyperpyrexia may vary but commonly include an altered mental state, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, profuse sweating, and flushed skin.
Treatment for hyperpyrexia consists of immediate medical intervention to reduce the body temperature and address the underlying cause. This may involve the use of oral or intravenous antipyretic medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, external cooling measures (e.g., cold compresses or cooling blankets), and fluid resuscitation. It is crucial to closely monitor the patient and provide supportive care to prevent complications associated with hyperpyrexia, such as organ damage or seizures.
In summary, hyperpyrexia refers to an excessively high body temperature above 41.5 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit). It necessitates urgent medical attention and treatment to lower the temperature and manage the underlying cause, which could range from severe infections to adverse drug reactions.
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The presence in the blood of an excess of heat-producing and energy-producing material derived from the fats and carbohydrates of the food.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERPYREMIA
- hyperpyrexis
- hyperpyrexa
- hyperpyrexia
- hiperpyrexia
- gyperpyremia
- byperpyremia
- nyperpyremia
- jyperpyremia
- uyperpyremia
- yyperpyremia
- htperpyremia
- hgperpyremia
- hhperpyremia
- huperpyremia
- h7perpyremia
- h6perpyremia
- hyoerpyremia
- hylerpyremia
- hy-erpyremia
- hy0erpyremia
Etymology of HYPERPYREMIA
The word "hyperpyrexia" originates from the combination of the prefix "hyper-" which means excessive or above normal, and the Greek word "pyrexia" (πυρεξία) which means fever or high body temperature.
