Hyperthermia induced defects
Overview
A rare disorder where hypothermia during pregnancy results in infant abnormalities involving growth, development and brain dysfunction.
Symptoms
* Anencephaly * Meningomyelocele * Occipital encephalocele * Neural tube defects * Small head
Causes
Depending on the specific disorder, the temperature elevation may be insidious or abrupt. It can be a prodromal symptom and is often accompanied by chills, goose bumps, generalized symptoms of fatigue, headache, weakness, anorexia, malaise, and possibly, pain. If the temperature is high, you may find that the patient, particularly an elderly patient, is disoriented and confused. Other associated signs and symptoms depend on the disease and can involve any body system. The patient’s history may include exposure to an infectious agent, travel to an endemic area, or exposure to the animal or insect vector of an infectious organism. Or his recent history may include a blood transfusion, surgery, trauma, or burns.
Treatment
Treat mild to moderate hyperthermia by providing a cool, restful environment. Replace oral or I.V. fluid and electrolyte losses. If the patient is experiencing heatstroke, apply cool water to the skin and fan the patient. Apply a hyperthermia blanket or ice packs to the groin and axilla. Expect treatment to continue until the patient’s body temperature drops to 102.2° F (39° C). Vital signs will require continuous monitoring, especially the core body temperature. Follow measures to avoid shivering. Employ additional external cooling measures, such as cool, wet sheets and tepid baths. Monitor hemodynamic parameters, fluid and electrolyte balance and laboratory and diagnostic studies. Monitor blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels and assess for signs and symptoms associated with rhabdomyolysis.