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- Fever in the setting of acute ischemic stroke is associated with increased mortality and morbidity.
- These effects are possibly due to increased metabolic demands, neurotransmitter release, and free radical production.
- Use of antipyretics to achieve normothermia may improve outcome.
- Studies have shown that hypothermia is neuroprotective.
- Look for a potential source of fever, which may have caused or prompted the stroke (i.e. infective endocarditis, complications of pneumonia).
Adams, et al. Guidelines for the Early Management of Adults with Ischemic Stroke. AHA/ASA Guidelines. 2007.