FEVER DIAGNOSIS |
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The diagnosis and management of viral
fevers is based more on the clinical presentation than by laboratory
investigations. Since these infections are commonly self-limited,
investigations are unnecessary. The diagnosis is made by the typical
history of fever with severe muscle and joint pains. Skin rash and
lymph gland swellings have to be specifically looked for.
Laboratory investigations are undertaken to rule out other bacterial
infections rather than to confirm viral fever. Blood tests will not
show any increase in the white blood cells, which typically occurs
with bacterial infections. The numbers of lymphocytes may be
increased. The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) is not elevated.
Confirmation is by culture of virus from the relevant specimens such
as nasal swabs, and skin rash or by increase in antibody levels in
serial blood samples. |
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| FEVER RELATED ITEMS |
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