[Malignant hyperthermia. Review of literature and case reports]

Malignant hyperthermia may appear during surgery. It has at least three features: 1) an anesthesiological trigger, usually the association of halothane and succinylcholine; 2) rapid increase in body temperature; 3) widespread muscle hypertonia. The literature is reviewed in an assessment of the physiopathological mechanism underlying the syndrome, with particular reference to the part played by calcium. Experimental data are cited and their similarity with the clinical, laboratory, anatomical, and histopathological picture in man is discussed. A detailed account is also given of two personal cases. Lastly, questions associated with the prevention and treatment of malignant hyperthermia are examined.