Which fever pattern is listed as a sign or symptom of TB?

Which fever pattern is listed as a sign or symptom of TB?

• A. Frequent high fever during the day
• B. Night sweats and low-grade fevers
• C. No fever
• D. Constant fever with rash

Answer: (B)

TB often shows a systemic, chronic pattern rather than a sudden, high fever. The combination of night sweats and a low-grade fever is classic for active TB because the body mounts a gradual inflammatory response to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. These symptoms may come with fatigue and weight loss, reflecting the ongoing immune fight rather than an acute spike in fever. In contrast, a frequent high fever during the day points to other infections that cause rapid, acute illness. No fever would be unusual for active TB, and a constant fever with a rash is not typical of TB and suggests other diseases. If TB is a possibility, further evaluation with tests such as sputum culture, chest imaging, and TB skin test or IGRA is needed to confirm.

TB often shows a systemic, chronic pattern rather than a sudden, high fever. The combination of night sweats and a low-grade fever is classic for active TB because the body mounts a gradual inflammatory response to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. These symptoms may come with fatigue and weight loss, reflecting the ongoing immune fight rather than an acute spike in fever.

In contrast, a frequent high fever during the day points to other infections that cause rapid, acute illness. No fever would be unusual for active TB, and a constant fever with a rash is not typical of TB and suggests other diseases. If TB is a possibility, further evaluation with tests such as sputum culture, chest imaging, and TB skin test or IGRA is needed to confirm.