Authors :
Dr. Venugopal Reddy I.
Volume/Issue :
Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 8 - August
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/myc2snzw
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/v346h6xc
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25aug440
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Abstract :
Persistent or recurrent fever without a clear source (fever without focus, FWF) in children under 10 years presents
a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, especially in high-burden urban settings like Bangalore. This
comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on the epidemiology, evolving infectious etiologies, diagnostic strategies,
and management principles. Emphasizing a structured, tiered approach informed by recent advances in molecular
diagnostics and prediction models, it advocates for judicious use of resources and antimicrobial stewardship. The article
highlights region-specific factors influencing etiologies, including emerging viral infections, tuberculosis, enteric fever, and
rickettsial diseases. This evidence-based framework supports clinical decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration
to optimize patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary interventions.
References :
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- Jain S, Purohit A, Pandey BN. Epidemiology of influenza virus infection in Indian children: A review. Indian Pediatr. 2020;57(12):1094-1100. doi:10.1007/s13312-020-2195-0.
- Garg R, Srivastava S, Tiwari R, et al. Characteristics and management of varicella infections in the pediatric population: A retrospective study. J Infect Public Health. 2022;15(1):42-47. doi:10.1016/j.jiph.2021.08.011.
- Singh V, Shah A, Seghal K, et al. Prolonged fever in children – A diagnostic challenge: Study from a tertiary care center in India. Indian J Pediatr. 2021;88(5):434-441. doi:10.1007/s12098-020-03526-7.
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- Akram SM, Sinha A, Soni RK, et al. Diagnostic approach to fever without source in Indian children: Algorithm based on regional epidemiology. Indian J Pediatr. 2021;88(12):1265-1273. doi:10.1007/s12098-021-03793-x.
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Persistent or recurrent fever without a clear source (fever without focus, FWF) in children under 10 years presents
a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, especially in high-burden urban settings like Bangalore. This
comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on the epidemiology, evolving infectious etiologies, diagnostic strategies,
and management principles. Emphasizing a structured, tiered approach informed by recent advances in molecular
diagnostics and prediction models, it advocates for judicious use of resources and antimicrobial stewardship. The article
highlights region-specific factors influencing etiologies, including emerging viral infections, tuberculosis, enteric fever, and
rickettsial diseases. This evidence-based framework supports clinical decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration
to optimize patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary interventions.