Which of the following is a common presenting feature of pediatric sepsis?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Fever or hypothermia
• C. Dehydration
• D. Cough

Answer: (B)

Fever or abnormal temperature control is a common presenting feature of pediatric sepsis because infection triggers the body's systemic inflammatory response, which often raises the hypothalamic set point to produce fever. In many children, fever is the first clue of a bloodstream or systemic infection. In younger infants or those with more severe illness, hypothermia can occur, signaling a blunted or overwhelmed response and poor perfusion. This temperature disturbance reflects the body's attempt to fight infection and is a hallmark that points toward a systemic process rather than a localized issue. While other signs like rapid heart rate, dehydration, or cough can appear with sepsis, temperature abnormality—fever or hypothermia—best captures the typical systemic presentation in pediatric patients.