Current understanding of malignant hyperthermia: genesis, prevention, and treatment.

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is an uncommon and potentially fatal pharmacogenetic complication of anesthesia. It is commonly triggered by administration of halothane and succinylcholine. The treatment of choice is to administer dantrolene sodium while simultaneously discontinuing the triggering agent. The continued treatment of the patient will reflect the hypermetabolic state. Anesthesia can be safely administered to MH-susceptible patients. Nontriggering agents are used, and meticulous monitoring of the patient is performed. All anesthesia providers should be familiar with MH.