Introduction to Understanding Fever and Body Temperature

In 1871, the German physician Carl August Wunderlich (1815–1910) published his book, which defined normal body temperature as 37.0 °C (98.6 °F) and 38.0 °C (100 °F) as fever. However, since that time, understanding the physiological mechanisms of thermoregulation, immunology, and microbiology has progressed. Besides, technology needed for accurate clinical thermometers has been improved. Our intention with this textbook is that the reader will gain insight into the importance of using knowledge from different disciplines to develop an appreciation of the different aspects of body temperature. As a conclusion, the last chapter includes realistic situations to apply the book content into clinical practice, with an inter-professional perspective.