[Intraoperative malignant hyperthermia: apropos of a case]

Malignant hyperthermia (MHS) is a rare potentially fatal complication of general anesthesia. Anesthetic agents most frequently incriminated are succinylcholine and halogenated agents. Respiratory acidosis is the most specific and sensitive sign. Hyperthermia per se may occur secondarily or may stay totally absent. Tachycardia and/or arrhythmias often develop due to hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis. Muscle rigidity whenever present is pathognomonic The "gold standard" test for the diagnosis of MHS is the halothane-caffeine contracture test. Dantrolene is the treatment of choice and prognosis depends on the early administration of this agent.