Does Brain Tumor Cause Fever?
January 10, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Brain tumors themselves typically do not cause fever. Fever is commonly associated with infections or inflammatory conditions, and it’s not a typical symptom directly caused by a primary brain tumor.
However, certain situations related to brain tumors might indirectly lead to fever:
- Infections: While the brain tumor itself doesn’t cause fever, it’s possible for someone with a brain tumor to develop an infection elsewhere in the body, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, or a systemic infection. Infections unrelated to the brain tumor can cause fever.
- Complications: In some cases, brain tumors can cause complications that may indirectly lead to fever. For instance, if a brain tumor obstructs the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and causes hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), it might lead to increased intracranial pressure and subsequent symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fever. This situation, however, is a consequence of the tumor’s impact on brain function rather than the tumor directly causing fever.
- Surgery or treatment: Fever can sometimes occur as a result of surgical interventions to remove or treat a brain tumor. Postoperative infections or complications following surgery can lead to fever.
It’s crucial to note that fever alone is not a definitive sign of a brain tumor. Brain tumors often present with a range of neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, changes in vision, cognitive changes, and more, depending on the tumor’s location and size.
If someone experiences persistent or unexplained fever, especially in combination with other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can conduct appropriate evaluations, tests, and imaging studies to determine the underlying cause of the fever and provide proper diagnosis and treatment.