Management of malignant hyperthermia

A case of malignant hyperthermia in a young girl with vesicoureteral reflux and multiple congenital abnormalities is discussed. Malignant hyperthermia is a relatively newly defined problem that is associated with anesthesia. It is being recognized with increasing frequency, particularly in children with multiple musculoskeletal anomalies. The term itself is a misnomer. It is a drug-induced syndrome of hypermetabolism that may represent an inborn error of metabolism. Recognition, prophylaxis and crisis management are reviewed, and the use of dantrolene sodium in the care of patients with malignant hyperthermia is discussed. Because recognition of malignant hyperthermia is an important concern for the practicing urologist, the principles of identifying the patient at risk, as well as managing the crisis, should be familiar to the clinician.