[Malignant hyperthermia].

Abstract

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is one of the most feared syndromes in anesthesiology. Due to its rarity and adequate precautions instituted for susceptible patients, most anesthesiologist have never been involved in a case of MH. However, the lack of familiarity with the early signs of MH and quick and effective treatment can increase the potential for increased morbidity and mortality. MH involves a derangement at the molecular level at the ryanodine R1 receptor. This leads to abnormally high levels of intracellular calcium and extracellular potassium. These biochemical mechanisms lead to a hypermetabolic syndrome that if not treated early will prove deadly.