"Is Chronic Low-Grade Fever a Sign of Leukemia?"
Long-Term Low-Grade Fever: Causes and Treatments
Long-term low-grade fever can be indicative of leukemia, but it can also stem from various other causes, including bacterial infections, viral infections, tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, among others. A definitive diagnosis necessitates a thorough assessment of the patient's clinical manifestations coupled with relevant diagnostic tests, leading to tailored treatments. Below are the key considerations:
1. Leukemia
Leukemia arises due to infections, genetic predispositions, or exposure to chemical irritants. It triggers abnormal proliferation of white blood cells, impeding normal hematopoiesis, resulting in persistent low-grade fever. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy to manage the disease and alleviate symptoms.
2. Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections elicit prolonged inflammatory responses, leading to low-grade fever. Treatment involves administering antibiotics selected based on drug sensitivity test results.
3. Viral Infections
When the immune system weakens, individuals become susceptible to viral infections such as varicella-zoster virus and cytomegalovirus, causing long-term low-grade fever. Antiviral medications or fever-reducing drugs may be prescribed.
4. Tuberculosis
Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, tuberculosis presents with chronic low-grade fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Treatment involves adhering to a prescribed regimen of anti-tuberculous drugs like rifampicin and isoniazid.
5. Autoimmune Diseases
Diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus evoke inflammatory reactions, causing persistent low-grade fever. Management involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoid therapies, such as acetaminophen and prednisone.
If the low-grade fever is attributed to prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures, reducing clothing layers or using air conditioning may alleviate symptoms.
Long-term low-grade fever should not be overlooked. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly and undergo relevant examinations, such as blood tests and tuberculin tests, for an accurate diagnosis to prevent disease progression.
