No response to trigger agents in a malignant hyperthermia-susceptible patient

Br J Anaesth. 2002 Jun;88(6):870-3. doi: 10.1093/bja/88.6.870.

Abstract

Malignant hyperthermia susceptibility is an inherited disorder, where a life-threatening condition can result from exposure to a trigger agent or agents. Succinylcholine and volatile anaesthetic agents are well established to be trigger agents in anaesthetic practice. We describe a case of a previously investigated malignant hyperthermia-susceptible patient who did not declare his status and was exposed to both succinylcholine and isoflurane, without any detectable reaction. Possible explanations for the lack of reaction include a subnormal temperature when exposed to isoflurane, and a significant interval between exposure to succinylcholine and isoflurane. Absence of a reaction to trigger agents on this occasion is not thought to indicate an incorrect diagnosis and labelling.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anesthetics, Inhalation / adverse effects*
  • Body Temperature
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Humans
  • Isoflurane / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Malignant Hyperthermia / etiology*
  • Neuromuscular Depolarizing Agents / adverse effects*
  • Succinylcholine / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Inhalation
  • Neuromuscular Depolarizing Agents
  • Isoflurane
  • Succinylcholine