As per standard obstetric definitions used in Indian examinations, puerperal pyrexia is defined as:
- A Any fever within 6 weeks of delivery regardless of measured temperature
- B Temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius or more on two consecutive days after delivery
- C Temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more occurring within 14 days of delivery or abortion ✓
- D Temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius or more persisting for 48 hours postpartum
Correct answer: C. Temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more occurring within 14 days of delivery or abortion
Explanation
The classical definition is a rise of temperature reaching 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 F) or more on any occasion within 14 days following delivery or miscarriage. The threshold of 38 A distinguishes it from low grade physiological fever, and the 14 day window is the conventional examination answer. Causes include genital sepsis, breast engorgement, urinary infection, wound infection and mastitis.
Reference: DC Dutta's Textbook of Obstetrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.