Work

The neurological and cognitive consequences of hyperthermia

Year: 2016

Type: review

Abstract: An elevated temperature has many aetiologies, both infective and non-infective, and while the fever of sepsis probably confers benefit, there is increasing evidence that the central nervous system is particularly vulnerable to damage from hyperthermia. A single episode of hyperthermia may cause short-term neurological and cognitive dysfunction, which may be prolonged or become permanent. The cerebellum is particularly intolerant to the effects of heat. Hyperthermia in the presence of acute brain injury worsens outcome. The thermotoxicity involved occurs via cellular, local, and systemic mechanisms. This article reviews both the cognitive and neurological consequences and examines the mechanisms of cerebral damage caused by high temperature.

Source: Critical Care

DOI: 10.1186/s13054-016-1376-4

Authors: Edward James Walter, Mike Carraretto

Institution: Royal Surrey County Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Thermal Regulation in Medicine

Subfield: Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,190