Low-Grade Fever in Leukemia: What Temperature Should You Watch For?
When it comes to leukemia, especially in children, one of the early and often overlooked symptoms is a persistent low-grade fever. Typically, this mild elevation in body temperature ranges around 37°C (98.6°F) and rarely exceeds 38°C (100.4°F). Unlike typical fevers caused by infections, this subtle rise in temperature may linger for days or even weeks without any obvious cause, making it easy to dismiss as a minor illness.
Understanding Low-Grade Fever in Leukemia Patients
A consistent low fever can be one of the first warning signs that something is wrong—particularly in pediatric cases. In leukemia, the bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells that don't function properly. These malfunctioning cells crowd out healthy blood cells, weakening the immune system and disrupting normal bodily functions. This internal imbalance can lead to a chronic, low-level inflammatory response, which often presents as a mild but persistent fever.
Can Leukemia Cause High Fever Too?
Yes, high fevers can also occur, especially when complications arise. While the baseline fever in early-stage leukemia tends to be low-grade, patients are at a significantly higher risk of infections due to compromised immunity. When an infection develops—such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or sepsis—the body may respond with a high fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F). Therefore, both low and high fevers should be taken seriously in suspected leukemia cases.
How Does Leukemia Affect White Blood Cell Counts?
In acute leukemia, there's a rapid increase in immature and dysfunctional white blood cells. These abnormal cells flood the bloodstream and bone marrow, suppressing the production of healthy red blood cells, platelets, and functional white blood cells. Paradoxically, while many patients show elevated white blood cell counts, some may have normal or even low levels—a condition known as leukopenia. This makes diagnosis more complex, as blood test results can vary significantly from patient to patient.
Why Monitoring Body Temperature Matters
Regular monitoring of body temperature, especially in children exhibiting fatigue, bruising, frequent infections, or unexplained pallor, can aid in early detection. A consistently elevated temperature—even if only slightly above normal—should prompt further medical evaluation. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes, as modern therapies including chemotherapy, targeted drugs, and stem cell transplants have significantly increased survival rates.
In summary, while a low-grade fever around 37°C may seem harmless, when combined with other systemic symptoms, it could signal an underlying condition like leukemia. Awareness and timely medical consultation are key to identifying such serious diseases in their earliest, most treatable stages.