Malignant Hyperthermia

Malignant Hyperthermia

It is defined as the dangerously high body temperature, rigid muscle and fast heart rate in response to certain drugs like drugs used in anesthesia. It can be a fatal condition if not treated urgently.

Symptoms

Following are the signs and symptoms of malignant hyperthermia:

• Abnormal heart rate
• Arrythmias
• Muscle spasm
• Breathing problems
• Excessive sweating
• Mottled skin

Causes

The cause of malignant hyperthermia is genetic defect in the certain genes which increase the risk of hyperthermia when exposure to certain medicine which trigger this condition. RYR1 is the most common gene affected in malignant hyperthermia.

Complications

If left untreated following complications can occur:

• Bleeding problems
• Kidney failure
• Muscles breakdown
• Problems in clotting

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of malignant hyperthermia is done by checking signs and symptoms during and after anesthesia. Genetic testing and muscle biopsy may help to find the actual cause of malignant hyperthermia.

Treatment

Following options of treatment for malignant hyperthermia available:

• Oxygen
• Extra fluids
• Medications like dantrolene
• Body cooling through ice packs and cool mist
• Supportive care