Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association (Apr 2024)

Endocrine Fever

  • Sanjay Kalra,
  • Saptarshi Bhattacharya,
  • Atul Dhingra,
  • Jaideep Khare,
  • Sushil Jindal

DOI
https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.24-36
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 74, no. 5

Abstract

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Fever is usually thought to be of an infectious or inflammatory etiology. In this brief communication, we explore the multifaceted connections between fever and endocrine dysfunction. Impaired resistance to infection often leads to fever in conditions like diabetes and Cushing's syndrome. Additionally, several endocrine disorders, including hyperthyroidism, subacute thyroiditis, carcinoid syndrome, and pheochromocytoma, can manifest as fever. Furthermore, fever can be an adverse effect of various endocrine treatments, such as bisphosphonates and antithyroid drugs. We refer to these scenarios as 'endocrine fever.' Increased awareness of these clinical associations can aid in prompt diagnosis and management of these conditions. Keywords: Fever, infection, immunity, adverse effect, diabetes, thyrotoxicosis