Malignant Hyperthermia Crisis During a Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Case Report

Cases of malignant hyperthermia (MH) are uncommon, but when they are not recognized early, they can be fatal. Early signs include increased heart rate and end tidal CO2 (EtCO2) readings followed by increased temperature. This is the case of 53-year-old man who had a MH crisis after exposure to the volatile anesthetic sevoflurane. His increased EtCO2 and tachycardia coupled with exposure to known trigger is indicative of MH. The condition was quickly recognized, and he was successfully treated with dantrolene. He recovered without significant long-term complications. This case contributes to the literature highlighting the early recognition and use of dantrolene for successful treatment in MH crises along with help from the MH hotline.