Is laparotomy necessary in the diagnosis of fever of unknown origin?

Ozaras R., Celik A., Zengin K., Mert A., Ozturkk R., Cicek Y., ...More

ACTA CHIRURGICA BELGICA, vol.105, no.1, pp.89-92, 2005 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 105 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2005
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/00015458.2005.11679673
  • Journal Name: ACTA CHIRURGICA BELGICA
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.89-92
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is a diagnostic challenge for the practising physician. Detailed medical history, physical examination, non-invasive laboratory tests, and radiologic examinations compose the first level in the diagnostic approach to the FUO. When a diagnosis cannot be established with these procedures, some invasive diagnostic techniques and finally exploratory laparotomy are performed. Although advanced diagnostic measures and imaging-guided less invasive procedures have decreased the need, laparotomy remains as a final diagnostic method for FUO cases. In this study we evaluate the role and importance of laparotomy in the diagnosis of our FUO cases.