Sisetemperatuuria

Sisetemperatuuria, or core body temperature in Finnish, denotes the temperature of the body's internal tissues and organs, distinct from skin temperature. In healthy adults, the core temperature centers around 37°C, with a typical normal range commonly cited as about 36.0–37.5°C, though individual variation occurs and depends on measurement method.

Regulation: The hypothalamus maintains core temperature by balancing heat production from metabolism and muscle activity with heat loss through the skin, respiration, and evaporative cooling. Fever is an elevation of the set point caused by pyrogens during infection or inflammatory states, while hypothermia reflects excessive heat loss or impaired production.

Measurement and sites: Core temperature is best measured with internal sensors such as rectal or esophageal probes; tympanic measurements approximate core temperature but can be affected by ear conditions. Oral and axillary readings are less reliable for precise assessment but are commonly used in routine care. Noninvasive wearable sensors are increasingly used for continuous monitoring.

Clinical relevance: Core temperature is a key vital sign in medicine, anesthesia, and critical care. Deviations from normal range signal illness or environmental exposure: hyperthermia or fever indicates infection or inflammation; hypothermia may result from cold exposure, alcohol, malnutrition, or medical conditions.

See also: thermoregulation, fever, hypothermia, homeothermy, pyrogens.