Fever of Unknown Origin

Definition

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is a fever with no clear cause even after testing for at least 1 to 2 weeks. A fever is often defined as a temperature higher than 101 °F (degrees Fahrenheit) / (38.3 degrees C).

Causes

The cause of this fever is unknown. In some people the cause may never be known. Finding a cause may be delayed if there is:

• A common illness that does not have the usual symptoms
• An infection that is often hard to diagnose
• Illness with symptoms that only appear later
• Illness that may not show up on tests until later, called delayed positive test
• Genetic condition that causes fever (rare)

Risk Factors

The risk of an illness is often based on the cause. There are no risk factors for FUO since the cause is unknown.

Symptoms

The fever may be steady or come and go. Chills, sweating, and other symptoms may also be present. They can vary based on the cause.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor may ask questions to look for possible causes. Questions may include:

• Have you traveled?
• Have you been hospitalized?
• Is your immune system damaged?
• What medicine are you taking?
• Have you been near anyone who has been ill?
• Have you ever been around someone with tuberculosis?

Tests to look for cause may include:

• Blood and urine tests
• X-rays
• CT scan
• Ultrasound

Treatment

Medicine may be used to lower fevers that are very high or causing other problems.

Treatment may be changed once a cause is confirmed.

Prevention

It is hard to prevent FUO since the cause is not known.

Revision Information

• Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board David L. Horn, MD, FACP
• Review Date: 01/2020
• Update Date: 08/04/2020