The role of dental disease in fever of unknown origin

The case presented emphasizes the need for evaluation of the oral cavity in the diagnostic workup of fever of unknown origin. Hurley stated, "Protracted fever of obscure cause remains one of the more daunting clinical challenges facing the physician. It calls for mobilization of all the physician's own skills and the expertise of colleagues as well as maintenance of an open mind to the patient's complaints and observations. Dogged determination and a systematic approach are the keys to solving the problem." When the possibility of dental disease is overlooked, the resulting search is sometimes long, tedious, and expensive. Early examination of the oral cavity by qualified personnel should be done even though pain is not present.