[Accidental hypothermia in man]

Accidental hypothermia, in contrast to medical hibernation, corresponds to a sudden, unforeseen lowering of the body temperature below 35 degrees C. This may occur endogenously in association with various diseases. On the other hand, it may be due to the exogenous influences of very low environmental temperatures. An impressive observation of accidental hypothermia is described and the pathophysiological findings in accidental hypothermia are reviewed.