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fever
Elevation of the body temperature above the normal 37°C (98.6°F). It is mostly caused by bacterial or viral infection and can accompany virtually any infectious disease. Inflammation, heat stroke, and some tumors are also important causes. Fever is produced by pyrogens, which are derived from cell products, and alter the set level of temperature-regulating centers in the hypothalamus. Fever may be continuous, intermittent or remittent, the distinction helping to determine the cause. Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. aspirin) reduce fever; steroids mask it.
Related category
• HEALTH AND DISEASE
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