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Updated: Jul 15, 2026

A Preclinical Model of Exertional Heat Stroke in Mice
Published on: July 1, 2021
Exertional heat stroke in the marathon
1Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. rober037@umn.edu
Abstract:
Exertional heat stroke (EHS) during or following a marathon race can be fatal if not promptly recognised and treated. EHS is a true medical emergency and immediate cooling markedly improves the outcomes. It is critical to recognise EHS and stop the cell damage before the cascade of heat-induced tissue changes becomes irreversible. The goal is to keep the area that is >40.5 degrees C under the body temperature versus time curve at <60 degree-minutes. Measuring the rectal temperature is the only precise estimate of core temperature available for field use. The field treatment of EHS is immediate, total-body cooling with ice-water tub immersion or rapidly rotating ice-water towels to the trunk, extremities and head, combined with ice packing of the neck, axillae and groin. Any combination of delayed recognition or cooling increases the potential for morbidity and mortality. For optimal outcomes, it is best to treat immediately with on-site whole-body cooling if cardiorespiratory status is 'stable' and then to transfer the runner for additional evaluation and care.
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Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
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