Malignant hyperthermia

  • Michael P Phy A general internist in the Department of Internal Medicne at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX
Keywords: malignant hyperthermia, succinylcholine, muscle injury, rigidity

Abstract

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare metabolic crisis triggered by volatile anesthetics and/or succinylcholine. It is important to remember that hyperthermia is not always present and may even present late in the course. Early recognition of the most common signs and symptoms is critical to diagnosis and treatment. Malignant hyperthermia was associated with a high mortality rate, but this has decreased with the use of dantrolene.  Although this is frequently reported in the anesthesia and surgical literature, it is important that critical care units that use succinylcholine as part of their intubation sequence be prepared to identify and treat this serious syndrome.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Author Biography

Michael P Phy, A general internist in the Department of Internal Medicne at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX
MD, pulmonary physician, expertise- clinical projects, ICU, COPD, general pulmonary medicine
Published
2016-01-12
How to Cite
Phy, M. P. (2016). Malignant hyperthermia. The Southwest Respiratory and Critical Care Chronicles, 4(13), 30-34. Retrieved from https://pulmonarychronicles.com/index.php/pulmonarychronicles/article/view/253