The genetics of malignant hyperthermia.

The genetic evaluation of the ryanodine type one receptor (RYR1) gene is unlikely to be a useful screening test of malignant hyperthermia susceptibility. But when significant suspicion of malignant hyperthermia has been raised by well-documented clinical events or strong family history, the genetic evaluation of RYR1 could secure a diagnosis and indicate appropriate treatment for both the index patient and many relatives of all ages, including the youngest.