If malignant hyperthermia is not treated promptly, what is the potential outcome?

• A. Circulatory collapse and death
• B. Temporary dizziness only
• C. Rapid hair growth
• D. Improved endurance

Answer: (A)

Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening reaction that can trigger a rapid, uncontrolled hypermetabolic crisis. When it isn’t treated promptly, the excessive release of calcium in skeletal muscles drives sustained muscle contraction, extreme heat production, acidosis, and electrolyte disturbances. This cascade overloads the body, leading to cardiovascular collapse and, in many cases, death. Early recognition and treatment with therapies like dantrolene and aggressive cooling are essential to prevent this outcome. The other options don’t fit because they describe mild, unrelated, or nonexistent effects compared to the severe, fatal progression of an untreated crisis.