Well-appearing febrile infant 8–60 days old. Workup & management by age band and inflammatory markers.
Applies to well-appearing, previously healthy infants born at ≥ 37 weeks, age 8–60 days, with fever ≥ 38.0 °C (100.4 °F) at home or in clinic. Ill-appearing infants, or those < 8 days, get full evaluation and admission regardless of this tool.
Age band
Inflammatory markers (IMs)
IM is abnormal if any of: procalcitonin > 0.5 ng/mL (preferred marker) · CRP > 20 mg/L · ANC > 4,000–5,200/mm³ · temperature > 38.5 °C (101.3 °F).
Select an age band
Simplified from the AAP 2021 clinical practice guideline; the full guideline includes shared decision-making, HSV considerations, and culture-result follow-up. Always individualize and consult the full algorithm. Decision support only — not a substitute for clinical judgment.
Pantell RH, et al. Evaluation and Management of Well-Appearing Febrile Infants 8 to 60 Days Old. Pediatrics. 2021;148(2):e2021052228.