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Current fever of unknown origin 1982-1992
1Department of Internal Medicine, Kitasato University, School of Medicine, Kanagawa.
Abstract:
Since its first rigid definition in 1961 by Petersdorf and Beeson, fever of unknown origin (FUO) has been a major clinical challenge. In this clinical investigation, a retrospective study was conducted on 153 patients meeting the classic criteria of FUO. Collagen-vascular disease was found to be the most common cause of FUO, a change since our last study conducted from 1971 to 1982, replacing infection as the most common disease category of FUO. FUO in elderly patients was also analyzed. By comparing previously documented studies, we observed a new variation in the diseases that are possible causes of FUO. This report will define the present status of FUO in Japan, as well as a comparison with our previous study and other documented studies to determine the shift in the spectrum of diseases causing FUO.
Insights
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is a clinical challenge. Collagen-vascular disease now most commonly causes FUO, shifting from infection, according to a retrospective study of 153 patients.
Area of Science:
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Investigation
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fever of unknown origin (FUO) presents a persistent clinical challenge since its initial definition.
- Understanding the evolving causes of FUO is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current spectrum of diseases causing FUO in Japan.
- To compare contemporary FUO causes with historical data and identify shifts in disease prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 153 patients meeting classic FUO criteria.
- Comparison of findings with previous studies, including the institution's own prior research (1971-1982).
- Analysis of FUO cases specifically in elderly patients.
Main Results:
- Collagen-vascular diseases have emerged as the leading cause of FUO.
- Infection, previously the most common cause, has been supplanted by collagen-vascular diseases.
- A notable variation in the spectrum of FUO etiologies was observed compared to historical data.
Conclusions:
- The etiological landscape of FUO has shifted, with collagen-vascular diseases now predominant.
- Contemporary FUO cases in Japan reflect changes in disease patterns compared to earlier decades.
- This study highlights the dynamic nature of FUO and the need for updated diagnostic considerations.