From the Guidelines
Fever is typically defined as a body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, with the relationship between fever and destination temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit being directly equivalent, where 38°C equals 100.4°F. The definition of fever can vary depending on the context and purpose, but generally, a rectal temperature of greater than or equal to 38.0°C (100.4°F) is considered the standard threshold for diagnosing fever 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Normal body temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F), though this can vary slightly between individuals and throughout the day.
- A low-grade fever ranges from 38-38.9°C (100.4-102°F), while a high-grade fever is considered 39°C (102.2°F) or above.
- Fevers above 41°C (105.8°F) are medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.
- The management of fever includes staying hydrated, resting, and seeking medical attention if the fever persists beyond 3 days, exceeds 39.4°C (103°F), or is accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, confusion, or stiff neck.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The most recent and highest quality study on the topic of fever definition and management is from 1, which provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical policy for well-appearing infants and children younger than 2 years of age presenting to the emergency department with fever. This study defines fever as a rectal temperature of greater than or equal to 38.0°C (100.4°F) and highlights the importance of considering the clinical context and individual patient factors when evaluating and managing fever.
Clinical Implications
In clinical practice, it is essential to consider the relationship between fever and destination temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit to ensure accurate diagnosis and management of fever. The use of a consistent definition of fever, such as a rectal temperature of greater than or equal to 38.0°C (100.4°F), can help guide clinical decision-making and ensure that patients receive appropriate care. Additionally, considering the clinical context and individual patient factors, such as age, immunization status, and underlying medical conditions, is crucial for providing high-quality care for patients with fever.
From the Research
Relationship Between Fever and Destination Temperature
- The relationship between fever and destination temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit is not directly addressed in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies discuss the treatment of fever using antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, and their effects on body temperature in degrees Celsius 3, 5, 6.
- For example, a study found that ibuprofen lowered the initial temperature from 39.1 degrees C to a mean temperature of 37.7 degrees C during treatment, while acetaminophen lowered the initial temperature from 39.2 degrees C to 38.0 degrees C 5.
- Another study compared the antipyretic efficacy of ibuprofen and acetaminophen in children with febrile seizures, and found that ibuprofen yielded significantly greater fever reduction than did acetaminophen 4 hours after the first dose 5.
- The studies also discuss the importance of initial temperature in antipyretic study design, and the influence of initial temperature on the magnitude of the response to an antipyretic drug 6.
Temperature Measurements
- The studies report temperature measurements in degrees Celsius, with some studies also providing temperature measurements in degrees Fahrenheit 6.
- For example, a study evaluated the antipyretic efficacy of ibuprofen in children with an initial temperature of at least 38.8 degrees C (101.9 degrees F) 6.
- However, there is no direct discussion of the relationship between fever and destination temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Antipyretic Medications
- The studies discuss the use of antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen to treat fever, and their effects on body temperature 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies found that these medications are effective in reducing fever, but there is no direct discussion of the relationship between fever and destination temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.