People exposed to hot environments may develop Malignant hyperthermia

There is mounting evidence that some people who are susceptible to Malignant hyperthermia (MH) will develop MH when exposed to hot environments or with exercise. This is could be problematic because without proper and prompt treatment, mortality associated with MH is extremely high; according to the Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States.

Six year-old Vincent Groetzner died June 14, 2010, after he started to complain of leg cramps and rapid heart rate and a developing fever that soared to 108 degrees while playing at a friend's house. The medical examiner reported the cause to be Malignant Hyperthermia (MH).

What is Malignant Hyperthermia
Malignant hyperthermia is a potentially fatal, inherited disorder usually associated with the administration of certain general anesthetics. The disorder is due to an acceleration of metabolism in skeletal muscle. The signs of MH include muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, high body temperature, muscle breakdown and increased acid content. Immediate treatment with the drug dantrolene sodium for injection usually reverses the signs of MH. The underlying defect is abnormally increased levels of cell calcium in the skeletal muscle. The best way to protect yourself, your family, your patients and facility, is to be prepared before it's too late.

"It's important to know that it's not just about anesthesia, there are other documented causes," Lisa Groetzner said to The Orlando Sentinel in 2010. To learn more about Lisa's story click this link.