Evaluation of the patient with unexplained night sweats or generalized hyperhydrosis

FUO: fever of unknown origin; TB: tuberculosis; CXR: chest x-ray; IGRA: interferon gamma release assay; CBC: complete blood count; TSH: thyroid-stimulating hormone; CRP: C-reactive protein; LFTs: liver function tests; CT: computed tomography; 5-HIAA: 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid.
* Refer to UpToDate content on FUO.
¶ Refer to UpToDate content on evaluation of night sweats with localizing signs and/or symptoms.
Δ Refer to UpToDate content on acute phase reactants.
◊ Although there is no recommended time to wait between steps in evaluation of persistent sweating symptoms, two weeks is a reasonable period. If, at any point, localizing signs or symptoms develop, evaluate as indicated for suspected etiology. If sweating symptoms resolve, no further evaluation is necessary.
§ Refer to UpToDate content on management of pheochromocytoma.
¥ Refer to UpToDate content on management of carcinoid syndrome.