Exertional heat stroke, rhabdomyolysis and susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia

Abstract

Unexpectedly severe exertional heat stroke and rhabdomyolysis should prompt a clinician to look for susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia. We report a case of exertional heat stroke and rhabdomyolysis in a man later determined to have the malignant hyperthermia phenotype. We review the existing literature regarding this association and suggest future research that could address areas of remaining clinical uncertainty.

Keywords: genetic testing; heat stroke; malignant hyperthermia; pharmacogenetics; rhabdomyolysis.