What characterizes relapsing fever?

The defining feature of relapsing fever is characterized by intermittent febrile episodes followed by periods of normal temperature. This means that an individual may experience episodes of high fever that come and go, often lasting for a few days followed by a period of normal temperature. This pattern can repeat, hence the term "relapsing."

In contrast, stable temperatures over several days, a continuous fever without breaks, or a constant high fever do not align with the typical clinical presentation of relapsing fever, as these would indicate a different type of fever pattern, often seen in other infections or conditions. Thus, understanding the pattern of temperature fluctuations is key to recognizing and diagnosing relapsing fever correctly.