What does a body temperature of 98.9 suggest?
Patient: Dear Drs.  I am a 50 year old woman who was just diagnosed with Breast Cancer.  I have had  bilateral mascectomies and reconstruction (DIEP) almost 2 months ago. I began Chemotherapy TC last week on Thursday, and had a Neulasta shot. Day 6, and my WBC is 1.7 and my Neutraphils are .36, very low.  I was given Cipro and told to watch for fever (says 100.5 in Neulasta guide).  I normally run about 97.3, but am up to 98.9.  Is this a fever?  Should I go to ER? or call? Doctor: Thanks for posting you query to health care magic.you dont need to worry about your temperature  as 98.4 degree Fis normal temperature and mild increse could be due to diurnal variation hence presently no need for medication or investigation . Chemotherapy itself causes tissue damage and produce liberation of inflammatory mediator may be espnsible for rise in temperature .If it peresist for long time or increases above 100 degree or cause discomfort to you consult to your clinician .hope you are satisfied with my answer .  feel free to communicate if any query .regards,Dr.Manish PurohitInfectious disease specialist