What type of fever fluctuates and returns to or below baseline before increasing again?

Intermittent fever is characterized by significant fluctuations in body temperature, wherein the temperature rises above the normal baseline but returns to or drops below the baseline before increasing again. This pattern typically involves spikes in temperature that occur at irregular intervals, often leading to periods of normal temperature in between.

This type of fever can indicate certain underlying conditions, such as infections or malignancies. By contrast, continuous fever remains elevated throughout the day without significant fluctuations, while remittent fever may have variations but does not return to baseline. The concept of repetitive fever is not a standard term used in medical practice, which makes the option less relevant. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why intermittent fever is the appropriate choice, as it captures the specific fluctuation pattern described in the question.