Malignant Hyperthermia
- Janet M. Torpy, MD, Writer;
- Cassio Lynm, MA, Illustrator;
- Richard M. Glass, MD, Editor
Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text.
- KEYWORDS:
- MALIGNANT HYPERTHERMIA
Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is severe, potentially fatal increased body energy consumption after exposure to certain anesthetic drugs. Malignant hyperthermia occurs in persons who have a genetic (inherited) susceptibility to this medical problem. Family history of death during general anesthesia (being put to sleep for surgery) or having a high body temperature during or after general anesthesia are the most likely indicators that a person may be susceptible to MH. The June 15, 2005, issue of JAMA includes an article about genetic testing (DNA testing from a sample of blood or other tissue) that can detect the presence of susceptibility for MH in persons with a family history of the disorder.
ANESTHESIA FOR PERSONS WITH MH
It is crucial for persons who are known to have MH or who have family members with MH to inform their doctors about it, particularly if they are having any type of anesthesia or surgery. Wearing a medical alert bracelet …
