SURVIVAL OF A MALIGNANT HYPERTHERMIA PATIENT

Malignant Hyperthermia

Abstract

Malignant hyperthermia is an inherited autosomal life threatening skeletal muscle disorder usually triggered by certain general anesthetic drugs like volatile anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants (succinylcholine). Only early recognition and prompt accurate treatment can save life in an otherwise fatal situation. We present a case of a young boy in whom malignant hyperthermia was recognized within 10 minutes of induction of anesthesia and life was saved by prompt treatment even in the absence of dantrolene.