Copyright (c) 2026 Pandideva Theyvendiran, Ruckmani A, Monica Immanuel, Aarudhran. G.K, Vignesh. K, Swaathy. S, Sharon Shirley Grace. A, Keerthana. J
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A Study on Clinical Profile, Diagnosis, Therapeutic Outcome, and Seasonal Variations of Fever in Patients Admitted to a Multispecialty Hospital in Tambaram, Chennai, and Tamil Nadu
Corresponding Author(s) : Ruckmani A
International Journal of Allied Medical Sciences and Clinical Research,
Vol. 14 No. 2 (2026): 2026 Volume -14 - Issue 2
Abstract
Background: Fever is one of the most common clinical presentations in hospital settings and a major cause of morbidity in tropical countries like India. Acute febrile illnesses (AFIs) arise from diverse etiologies, including Viral, Bacterial, Fungal, and Parasitic infections. In endemic regions, Dengue and other viral fevers contribute significantly to disease burden, with incidence influenced by climatic and seasonal variations. Although malaria was historically prevalent in Tamil Nadu, no cases were reported during the present study period.
Objective: To analyze clinical characteristics, diagnostic patterns, seasonal variation, and therapeutic outcomes among inpatients presenting with fever, along with demographic information in a tertiary care hospital, Tambaram, Chennai.
Methods: This prospective observational study included 203 patients aged 18–68 years admitted with fever, conducted over one year. Sample size was calculated based on the expected prevalence of febrile illness using an appropriate statistical method. Clinical laboratory and treatment data were recorded. Fevers were categorized into diagnosed and undiagnosed fevers. Diagnosed fever will include dengue, chikungunya, respiratory viral diseases, as well as chickenpox, Covid-19 and others. Undiagnosed fevers will be collectively grouped as Acute Undiagnosed Febrile Illness (AUFIs). Seasonal trends, gastrointestinal symptoms, and therapeutic outcomes were analyzed.
Results: The mean age was 35.04 ± 13.56 years, with male predominance (60.6%). AUFIs (57.1%) and Dengue (36.5%) were followed by undiagnosed fever. Seasonal variation showed higher case distribution during winter (42.9%), followed by summer and monsoon, though not statistically significant. Most patients showed favorable therapeutic outcomes, with short hospital stays and clinical improvement at discharge.
Conclusion: Febrile illnesses were mostly of origin, with dengue and AFI being the leading causes. Despite the known history in this region, malaria was absent in this cohort. Seasonal variation and gastrointestinal symptoms were the attributable variables observed, while the overall therapeutic outcomes were favorable.