Neoplastic Fever: All who Shiver are not Infected.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Oncology

Background:

• Central nervous system neoplasms can present with diverse symptoms.
• Acute febrile illness requires a broad differential diagnosis.

Observation:

• A previously healthy 14-year-old male experienced high-grade fever and headache.
• A history of childhood convulsions prompted a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain.
• MRI findings were suggestive of a central nervous system neoplasm.

Findings:

• The patient's fever lasted only two days, an atypical presentation for a neoplasm.
• Neoplastic fever is often considered a remote possibility in acute febrile illnesses.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider neoplastic fever in the differential diagnosis of acute febrile illness, even if rare.
• Early recognition of central nervous system neoplasms is crucial for timely intervention.
• This case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluation in pediatric febrile illnesses.