overview
Malignant hyperthermia is a severe reaction to certain anesthetic drugs. This serious reaction usually includes a dangerously high body temperature, stiff muscles or cramps, a fast heart rate, and other symptoms. Without prompt treatment, complications from malignant hyperthermia can be life-threatening.
In most cases, the defective gene that puts you at risk for malignant hyperthermia is inherited, although sometimes it is the result of an accidental genetic defect. Genetic testing can determine if you have an abnormal gene. This genetic disorder is known as susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia (MHS).
Treatments for malignant hyperthermia include the drug dantrolene (Dantrium, Ryanodex, Revonto), ice packs, and other measures to cool the body, as well as supportive care. Malignant hyperthermia Treatment in Hyderabad
symptoms
In most cases, there will be no signs or symptoms of sensitivity to malignant hyperthermia until you are exposed to certain drugs used for anesthesia.
Rarely, people at risk for malignant hyperthermia have shown signs of a reaction after strenuous physical activity in excess of heat or humidity, during a viral illness, or while taking statins.
If you are at risk for malignant hyperthermia and do not have a severe reaction to the first exposure to certain anesthetics, you remain at risk if you receive these drugs in the future. Instead, other anesthetics that do not cause a response can be used. Malignant hyperthermia Treatment in Hyderabad
The signs and symptoms of malignant hyperthermia can vary and occur during anesthesia or during recovery shortly after surgery. They can include:
- Excessive muscle stiffness or cramps
- Fast, shallow breathing and problems with lack of oxygen and high carbon dioxide
- Fast heart rate
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Dangerously high body temperature
- Heavy sweating
- Irregular and blotchy skin tone (blotchy skin)
The reasons
The susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia (MHS) is caused by a genetic defect (mutation). The abnormal gene increases your risk of malignant hyperthermia if you are exposed to certain anesthetics that trigger a reaction. The abnormal gene is most often inherited, usually from a parent who carries it. Less often, the abnormal gene is not inherited and is the result of a random genetic mutation.
Different genes can cause the disorder. The most commonly affected gene is RYR1. The least common genes affected are CACNA1S and STAC3.
Risk factors
Your risk of developing malignant hyperthermia is higher if a family member has it.
If either parent has the abnormal gene, you have a 50% chance of having it too (autosomal dominant inheritance pattern).
If you have other relatives with this genetic disorder, your chances of having it also increase.
Your risk of malignant hyperthermia is also higher if you or a close relative:
A story of an event where malignant hyperthermia is suspected during anesthesia
prevention
If you have a family history of malignant hyperthermia or a relative has problems with anesthesia, talk to your doctor or anesthetist before surgery or anesthesia-like procedure. Malignant hyperthermia Treatment in Hyderabad
By assessing your risk for malignant hyperthermia, your anesthetist can avoid certain anesthetics.