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What does "puo" mean?

Published in Medical Terminology 2 mins read

"PUO" stands for Pyrexia of Unknown Origin, which is also known as fever of unknown origin (FUO).

Understanding Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO)

PUO, or fever of unknown origin, is a medical term used when a person has a fever that cannot be explained after thorough medical investigation. It is a condition defined by prolonged, unexplained fevers.

Defining Characteristics of PUO

According to the provided reference, PUO is defined by the following:

  • Elevated Body Temperature: A body temperature exceeding 38.3 °C (101.0 °F).
  • Duration of Fever: The fever must persist for at least 21 days or three weeks.
  • Unidentified Cause: The fever's cause must remain unknown even after thorough clinical evaluations, including at least three days of inpatient investigation.

Medical Evaluation for PUO

When someone presents with PUO, healthcare providers conduct extensive testing, which may include:

  • Physical Examination: Detailed assessment of the patient's overall health.
  • Blood Tests: Comprehensive analysis to identify infection, inflammation, or other disorders.
  • Imaging Studies: Such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to examine internal organs and tissues.
  • Infectious Disease Evaluation: Tests to rule out bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
  • Tissue Biopsy: In certain cases, a tissue sample might be required to find abnormalities.

Significance of PUO

PUO highlights the difficulty in pinpointing the root cause of certain illnesses. This often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving different medical specialists. Understanding the term PUO is crucial for both healthcare professionals and the public for recognizing the complexity of such conditions.

Term Meaning
PUO or FUO Pyrexia of Unknown Origin or Fever of Unknown Origin
Temperature Criteria Exceeding 38.3 °C (101.0 °F)
Duration Requirement At least 21 days or three weeks
Diagnostic Evaluation Must include a thorough medical investigation, often including at least 3 inpatient days