Full Form of FUO

What is FUO?

Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) is a clinical condition defined as a fever exceeding 38.3°C (101°F) that persists for at least three weeks without a definitive diagnosis after a thorough initial evaluation. In India, FUO poses a significant diagnostic challenge due to the wide variety of tropical infections, including typhoid, tuberculosis, malaria, and leptospirosis, as well as non-infectious causes such as autoimmune disorders and malignancies. The term is commonly used in hospital settings, particularly in internal medicine and infectious disease departments, where patients present with prolonged fever without localizing signs. The diagnostic workup often involves serial blood cultures, imaging studies (CT, MRI), and serological tests for endemic diseases. FUO is highly relevant for medical students and residents preparing for postgraduate entrance exams in India, as it tests their ability to systematically rule out infections, collagen vascular diseases, and neoplasms. The management of FUO requires a methodical approach, often starting with a detailed travel and exposure history, given India's diverse geography and burden of infectious diseases. Timely identification of the underlying cause is crucial to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and ensure appropriate treatment, especially in resource-limited settings.

FUO का फुल फॉर्म

Example

The patient was admitted with a two-week history of high-grade fever, and after initial tests were negative, the case was labelled as FUO, prompting a comprehensive workup for tropical infections.

FUO — frequently asked questions

Related full forms