Figure 4.
Fever is caused by cytokines released from macrophages and other immune cells
The cytokines may act on vagal nerve endings or enter the brain to cause a resetting of the temperature control centre in the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus causes shivering and constriction of skin blood vessels and also initiates a sensation of chilliness that is perceived at the level of the cerebral cortex. IL=interleukin; TNF=tumour necrosis factor.