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Updated: May 11, 2026
08:22
A Preclinical Model of Exertional Heat Stroke in Mice
Published on: July 1, 2021
Heatstroke: thermoregulation, pathophysiology, and predisposing factors.
Carey Hemmelgarn1, Kristi Gannon
1Oradell Animal Hospital, Paramus, New Jersey, USA.
Compendium (Yardley, PA)
|May 17, 2013
Summary
Heatstroke is a serious veterinary emergency caused by high temperatures or strenuous exercise. Prompt recognition and management are crucial as it can lead to multi-organ system damage.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Physiology
Background:
- Heatstroke is a critical veterinary emergency.
- It can be classified as classic (nonexertional) or exertional.
- Thermoregulation failure leads to severe hyperthermia and organ injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the pathophysiology of heatstroke in animals.
- To identify the initial stages and affected organ systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on heatstroke.
- Analysis of thermoregulatory mechanisms and their failure.
- Identification of early physiological responses and affected systems.
Main Results:
- Heatstroke results from impaired thermoregulation due to external heat or exercise.
- Early signs include altered thermoregulation, acute phase response, and heat shock protein activation.
- Commonly affected systems include gastrointestinal, coagulation, renal, cardiac, pulmonary, and central nervous systems.
Conclusions:
- Heatstroke is a complex condition requiring immediate veterinary attention.
- Understanding the stages and affected systems is key for effective treatment.
- Prompt intervention can mitigate life-threatening complications.
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