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08:22
A Preclinical Model of Exertional Heat Stroke in Mice
Published on: July 1, 2021
Multiple Organ Failure Following Near Fatal Exertional Heat Stroke
Maximo H Trujillo1, Ezequiel Bellorin-Font, Carlos F Fragachan
1Critical Care Units and Division of Nephrology, The University Hospital of Caracas, Caracas, Venezuela. maxtrujillo@movistar.net.ve
Journal of Intensive Care Medicine
|November 20, 2008
Summary
This case study details a near-fatal heat stroke in a young hiker, resulting in multiple organ failure. Intensive care and conservative treatment strategies led to the patient's complete recovery.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Critical Care Medicine
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness requiring immediate medical attention.
- Strenuous physical activity in hot, humid conditions significantly increases the risk of heat stroke.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for preventing severe complications.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old female experienced convulsive and hyperthermic symptoms during a hike.
- The patient subsequently developed multi-organ failure, including neurological, renal, hepatic, and muscular damage.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation was also noted as a complication.
Findings:
- The patient received intensive care including ventilatory support, hemodialysis, corticosteroids, and enteral nutrition.
- Despite the severity of multi-organ failure, a conservative management approach was employed.
- The patient achieved complete recovery without specific heat stroke treatment protocols.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical role of intensive care in managing severe heat stroke.
- Conservative strategies and supportive care can lead to survival and full recovery in near-fatal heat stroke cases.
- It underscores the importance of recognizing and managing heat-related illnesses, particularly in vulnerable populations during extreme weather conditions.
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