Fever in Sepsis Revisited: Is a Little Heat What We Need?
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By
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Alwin Tilanus
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Wilmer Villamil
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September 30, 2025
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Objective:
To summarize clinical data regarding fever management in sepsis and provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians.
Key Findings:
- Fever stimulates immune responses and inhibits microbial growth through various mechanisms.
- Temperature extremes in sepsis (hypothermia and hyperthermia) are associated with adverse outcomes.
- Antipyretic therapy may negatively impact septic patients, necessitating individualized approaches.
Interpretation:
Fever may play a protective role in sepsis, and its suppression could be detrimental to patient outcomes, warranting cautious use of antipyretics.
Limitations:
- Observational studies may not establish causation.
- Variability in individual patient responses to fever and temperature management.
- More randomized controlled trials are needed to strengthen the evidence base.
Conclusion:
Fever should not be indiscriminately treated in septic patients; individualized management is crucial.