Malignant hyperthermia

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a type of severe reaction that occurs in response to particular medications used during general anesthesia, among other triggers. This reaction results in a high body temperature and severe muscle contractions. If not treated promptly, MH can result in serious complications and even death.

Causes

MH is usually triggered by exposure to certain drugs used for general anesthesia, such as volatile anesthetic agents and the muscle relaxant succinylcholine. These drugs can cause a rapid increase in the body's calcium level, leading to severe muscle contractions. In some cases, MH can also be triggered by extreme physical exertion or a high fever. MH is often inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that an affected person has a 50% chance of passing the disorder to each of their children.

Symptoms

The symptoms of MH can include a high body temperature, muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, and rapid breathing. In severe cases, MH can lead to complications such as cardiac arrest, kidney failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation, a condition that causes small blood clots to form throughout the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of MH can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. However, a definitive diagnosis can be made through a muscle biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of muscle tissue for examination under a microscope. Genetic testing can also be used to identify mutations associated with MH.

Treatment

The primary treatment for MH is the administration of the drug dantrolene, which helps to reduce muscle rigidity and lower body temperature. In addition to dantrolene, supportive care is also important, which may include measures to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

See also

• Anesthesia
• Muscle biopsy
• Genetic testing
• Dantrolene

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