Fever of unknown origin following traumatic brain injury.
Fever is a common complication of a traumatic brain injury, occurring during both the acute-care phase and the rehabilitation phase of recovery. The aetiology of fever in this population may remain obscure because of the presence of cognitive confusion associated with post-traumatic amnesia interfering with history taking and the difficult physical examination. We present a case where recovery from a traumatic brain injury was complicated by a fever of unknown origin that proved to be secondary to lateral sinus thrombophlebitis. This case emphasises the importance of a thorough knowledge of the differential diagnosis for fever that is unique to the traumatic brain injury population.
Jackson
R D
RD
Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus.
Mysiw
W J
WJ
D000328:Adult; D001914:Boxing / Q000293:injuries*; D001924:Brain Concussion / Q000150:complications*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005335:Fever of Unknown Origin / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D012851:Sinus Thrombosis, Intracranial / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis