A case of severe heatstroke and review of pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment

Abstract

Heatstroke is life-threatening condition characterized by hyperthermia and central nervous system disturbances. It can also be classified as a form of systemic inflammatory response syndrome with multiple organ dysfunction and in many ways resembles sepsis. Like sepsis, most patients with heatstroke demonstrate a hyperdynamic hemodynamic response. In contrast to sepsis, rhabdomyolysis may complicate management and initial fluid resuscitation is not well defined. We present an illustrative case report and review of literature.

Keywords: CVP; heatstroke; hyperdynamic; hyperthermia; systemic inflammatory response syndrome.