MALIGNANT HYPERTHERMIA DURING PROLONGED SURGERY FOR TUMOR RESECTION

The onset of malignant hyperthermia in a patient during a prolonged an aesthetic for tumour resection is described. The onset was delayed wit h a gradual rise in heart rate and PETCO2 before becoming fulminant; m uscle rigidity was not a feature. Other aspects of the patient's condi tion confused the presentation, delayed the diagnosis and may have bee n involved in precipitating the event. However, it responded rapidly t o treatment and surgery was continued. A possible recrudescence occurr ed 18 h later. Malignant hyperthermia should be considered early in ca ses of unexplained tachycardia or rising PETCO2.