Heatstroke is an extreme form of heat-related illness that commonly affects many organ systems. Notably, abnormalities may be evident in the central nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, hepatic, gastrointestinal and renal systems. Coagulopathy is common.
A central defining feature is a core body temperature >40oC, associated with central nervous system dysfunction (such as confusion, seizures, or impaired consciousness).
Morbidity and mortality (which can be in excess of 50% in those of advanced age) are high, especially in those requiring critical care support with a high incidence of long-term health complications.
Risk factors differ significantly between the two types of heatstroke: classical and exertional. These are contrasted in the table below.
Table 1. Risk factors for classical and exertional heatstroke
