What is a pyrogenic reaction to IV therapy?

A pyrogenic reaction to IV therapy is a systemic inflammatory response to the administration of intravenous fluids or medications. It is characterized by a sudden rise in body temperature, chills, rigors, and hypotension. The reaction is caused by the release of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, into the bloodstream. Pyrogenic reactions are most commonly caused by the presence of bacteria or endotoxins in IV fluids or medications, but they can also be caused by other factors, such as the use of certain medications, such as chemotherapy agents, or the presence of foreign bodies in the bloodstream. Pyrogenic reactions are typically mild and self-limited, but they can be more severe in some cases, leading to sepsis and shock. Treatment of pyrogenic reactions typically involves discontinuing the IV infusion, administering antipyretics and fluids, and monitoring the patient for signs of infection.