Question
A 13-year-old child has been experiencing weakness for many years, with poor appetite, a lack of interest in activities, aversion to both heat and cold, and frequent low-grade fevers. The toes hurt during the fever. What could be the cause?
Answer
If the foot pain refers to the calf, consider the possibility of Lyme disease. If it’s the thigh, bone tumor should be considered. Of course, blood system diseases must also be considered, such as leukemia or tuberculosis. Pure fever can also cause systemic aches and pains, but for a child who has already undergone treatment, we should still be cautious. Recommendation: The necessary examinations include routine blood tests, X-rays of the legs and lungs, and PPD test. Treatment should be targeted based on the results of the examinations.