Physical condition
Hello, doctor.
Recently, for about a week, around noon, my body temperature rises to 36.8-37.2°C.
Sometimes I feel a bit warm, but by 8 or 9 PM, my temperature returns to 36.6-36.8°C.
I have had blood tests done, and the results are normal (cholesterol and triglycerides are slightly elevated).
LDH and CPK levels are normal, with LDH at 195 (the reference range is 150-230), which is slightly high but still within the range.
Does this have any clinical significance? Additionally, I sometimes feel a bit of warmth and discomfort in my left armpit, but there are no visible abnormalities.
The doctor did not find any swollen lymph nodes, and I also had a breast ultrasound and chest X-ray, both of which were normal, as well as a gastroscopy.
Can you tell me if my body temperature is considered a fever? Is there a possibility of blood disorders or other issues?
Aguang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/31
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Body temperature can change in response to external environmental temperatures; for instance, higher temperatures at noon can lead to relatively higher body temperatures, and vice versa.
A body temperature exceeding 38°C or below 36°C is clinically significant (indicating fever or hypothermia).
If all test values are normal, it is advisable not to be overly anxious and to maintain normal lifestyle habits.
Reply Date: 2018/01/31
More Info
Understanding body temperature fluctuations is crucial for assessing health, particularly when there are concerns about potential underlying conditions such as tumors. Your reported temperature range of 36.8°C to 37.2°C (98.2°F to 99°F) is generally considered to be within the normal range, especially since normal body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors, including physical activity, time of day, and even emotional state.
In adults, a body temperature above 37.6°C (99.7°F) is typically considered a fever, while your readings do not indicate a fever. However, the sensation of feeling "hot" or experiencing slight temperature increases can be subjective and may not necessarily correlate with an actual rise in body temperature.
Regarding your concerns about tumors and the relationship between body temperature and cancer, it is important to note that not all cancer patients experience elevated body temperatures. Some may have what is known as "tumor fever," which can occur due to the body's immune response to the tumor or the release of pyrogens (substances that induce fever) from the tumor itself. However, this is not a definitive indicator of tumor growth or severity.
Your blood tests showing normal levels of LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) and CPK (creatine phosphokinase) are reassuring, as elevated levels of these enzymes can sometimes indicate tissue damage or disease processes, including malignancies. The LDH level you mentioned (195) is within the normal range, albeit on the higher end, but it does not raise immediate concern without other symptoms or abnormal findings.
The sensation of warmth in your left armpit without visible swelling or lymphadenopathy is also noteworthy. It could be related to various benign conditions, such as localized inflammation or even a mild infection. Since you have undergone imaging studies (ultrasound and chest X-ray) that returned normal results, this further reduces the likelihood of significant underlying pathology.
As for your concerns about blood disorders, while certain symptoms can suggest hematological issues, your normal blood test results and the absence of significant clinical findings make this less likely. However, if you continue to experience unusual symptoms or if your temperature fluctuations become more pronounced, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
In summary, your body temperature fluctuations do not currently indicate a fever or an immediate cause for concern regarding tumors or blood diseases. However, it is essential to maintain regular check-ups and communicate any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. They can help you monitor your health and determine if any further investigations are necessary. Always trust your instincts about your health, and don't hesitate to seek medical advice if you feel something is not right.
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