noun
- Substances that cause fever by triggering the release of cytokines in the body; fever-inducing agents.
Usage: Medical/scientific term; Plural of pyrogen; Commonly used in clinical and immunological contexts
Examples
- Bacterial endotoxins are common pyrogens that trigger immune responses.
- The patient's fever was caused by pyrogens released during the infection.
- Pyrogens can originate from bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens.
- Medical equipment must be sterilized to remove pyrogens that could cause febrile reactions.
- The body's immune system recognizes certain pyrogens and initiates a fever response.