Malignant hyperthermia
Alternative Names
Hyperthermia - malignant; Hyperpyrexia - malignantTreatment
For an episode of malignant hyperthermia, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and a cooling blanket can help reduce fever. The use of a drug called dantrolene during episodes of malignant hyperthermia has greatly reduced the number of deaths.
Fluids given by IV and mouth, as well as certain medications, are essential for maintaining kidney function during an acute episode.
Support Groups
Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States - www.mhaus.org
Outlook (Prognosis)
Repeated episodes or untreated episodes can cause kidney failure. Untreated episodes can be fatal.
Possible Complications
- Rhabdomyolysis, a kidney injury caused by excess myoglobin
- Renal failure
- Myopathy (weak muscles) or muscular dystrophy
- Death
When to Contact a Medical Professional
If you know that you or a member of your family has had problems with general anesthesia, or if you know you have a family history of malignant hyperthermia, be sure to notify both the surgeon and the anesthesiologist before having any surgery.
References
Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002:2000.
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