Experimental study of relation of fever to cerebral edema

✓ The effect of hyperthermia on the development of the cerebral edema associated with cryogenic lesions was studied in monkeys. Exposure to a body temperature of near 104°F for a period of only 2 hours increased the edema by 40%. This effect was independent of the hypertensive action of hyperthermia but was intensified when the latter was present. It is suggested that, in human diseases known or thought to be associated with cerebral edema, fever should be vigorously treated.