What are pyrogens?

Pyrogens are indeed defined as fever-producing substances. They can be categorized into two types: exogenous and endogenous. Exogenous pyrogens are typically from external sources, often produced by pathogens like bacteria, while endogenous pyrogens are produced by the body’s immune system in response to infection or inflammation. When introduced into the body, these substances can trigger an increase in body temperature, resulting in fever, which is part of the body’s defense mechanism to fight off infections.

This understanding is crucial in the healthcare field, particularly in central service and sterilization processes, as the presence of pyrogens in medical equipment can compromise patient safety. Therefore, it becomes vital to ensure that sterilization processes are effective not only in eliminating microorganisms but also in removing potential pyrogens from medical devices and supplies. This knowledge contributes significantly to maintaining infection control in clinical settings.