Fever: to treat or not to treat. Point.

Abstract

Fever is one of the most common complaints that brings children to medical attention. Although most often a sign of self-limited viral infections in children, fever can also be a sign of bacterial infections (i.e., bacteremia, pneumonia, meningitis), and prolonged fevers may signal other serious diseases, such as malignancy and connective tissue disease. Considerable controversy exists in the medical community over whether and how fever should be treated. The controversy is based on the potential beneficial effects of fever in fighting infections versus control of fever for comfort, and whether or not treatment of fever might prolong the course of illness. Also, there are many safety concerns over the use of antipyretics. Fever is a source of considerable parental anxiety. A study in 1980 by Schmitt showed that over half of parents surveyed thought that a temperature of 104'F and higher could result in permanent brain damage or death.' A more recent study by Crocetti and associates revealed that 91 % of caregivers believed that fever could cause harmful effects.2 The majority of parents surveyed reported that their views on fever were most influenced by what they learned in physician's offices. Numerous studies of health