Case of the Month #50 Heatstroke

Published 20/06/2024

Take home messages

  • Hyperthermia is an elevated core body temperature not related to hypothalamic activity. 

  • Many causes exist, with a common pathway of end-organ damage due to the heat-related effects of cytotoxicity and inflammation. 

  • Heatstroke, like other conditions associated with hyperthermia requires rapid cooling to reduce the core body temperature of the patient. 

  • Most management strategies are supportive, but hyperthermia leading to severe disease often requires admission to critical care for organ support.