Malignant Hyperthermia
Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare, but potentially
life-threatening condition that can occur during or after exposure to certain
types of anesthesia. It is a type of hypermetabolic syndrome characterized by
elevated body temperature, muscle rigidity, and an increased rate of oxygen
consumption. MH is typically triggered by the use of volatile anesthetic agents
(such as halothane or isoflurane) or the muscle relaxant succinylcholine. It is a genetic disorder that affects the way
the body responds to certain drugs that are commonly used in anesthesia.
MH is a rare condition, occurring in about 1 in 10,000-50,000 patients undergoing general anesthesia. However, for individuals with a family history of MH or other risk factors, the risk may be higher. It is important for patients to inform their healthcare providers of any personal or family history of MH or related conditions prior to undergoing anesthesia, so that appropriate precautions can be taken to minimize the risk of this potentially life-threatening condition.
MH occurs when a person's muscles produce too much heat and their body temperature rapidly increases to dangerous levels, often exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This can lead to severe muscle contractions, muscle breakdown, and damage to vital organs.
The exact mechanism by which MH occurs is not fully
understood, but it is thought to involve an abnormality in the way calcium is
regulated in muscle cells. In individuals who are susceptible to MH, the
administration of certain drugs can trigger a massive release of calcium within
the muscle cells, leading to a state of hypometabolism.
symptoms
Symptoms of MH typically appear within the first hour of exposure to the triggering agent, and can include :
1- rapid heart rate.
2- high fever (above 104°F/40°C).
3- muscle rigidity.
4- acidosis.
5- increased carbon dioxide production.
6- and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.
7- If left untreated, MH can lead to multiple organ failure, brain damage, and death.
Treatment
1- Treatment of MH involves stopping the administration of the triggering agent. providing.
2- supportive care to stabilize the patient's vital signs.
3- Body cooling measures, such as cold IV fluids and ice packs, for hyperthermia (high fever).
4- Oxygen through a face mask or a tube placed in your trachea.
5- Medications to treat arrhythmia (abnormal or irregular heartbeat).
6- and administering the medication dantrolene, which is the only known specific treatment for MH. Dantrolene works by reducing the release of calcium within muscle cells and preventing the hypermetabolic state from worsening.
If you have a family history of MH, it's important to inform
your anesthesiologist prior to any surgical procedure, so they can take
appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of MH occurring.