Heatstroke: a life-threatening condition that presents with hyperthermia > 40°C (104°F) and central nervous system dysfunction (e.g., altered mental status).

Epidemiology

Etiology

Pathophysiology

Clinical features

• Hot, potentially dry skin
• Body temperature > 40°C (104°F)
• Musculoskeletal features: tender, rigid, limp, or cramping muscles
• Central nervous system
  • Delirium, hallucinations
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Convulsions
  • Tremors
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Could lead to DIC
  • Thermal injury caused by heatstroke leads to inflammation of the vascular endothelium, which activates the coagulation cascade.

Diagnostics

Treatment