Analytic Review: Disorders of Temperature Control: Part I. Hyperthermia

Abstract

After a review of the normal physiology of temperature regulation, one of the three hyperthermic syndromes— heat stroke—is discussed in detail with respect to its pathogenesis, pathophysiology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment. The other syndromes— malignant hyperthermia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome—are discussed in Part II. Heat stroke is a syndrome of acute thermoregulatory failure in warm environments; malignant hyperthermia is a drug or stress-induced hypermetabolic syndrome characterized by vigorous muscular contractions; and the neuroleptic malignant syndrome results primarily from an imbalance of central neurotransmitters, usually due to neuroleptic drug use and characterized by muscular rigidity. Knowledge of the normal physiology of temperature regulation and the causes and pathophysiology of heat stroke are keys to understanding the other two syndromes.