ABSTRACT

Due to internal heat produced in response to strenuous physical activity, external heat illness ranges from heat exhaustion to heat injury and heat stroke. Here we describe a case of multiorgan dysfunction after a marathon with average body temperature, i.e. exertional heat injury, the intermediate spectrum of exertional heat illness. A 20-year male had a transient loss of consciousness after the marathon recovered but had episodes of vomiting and altered sensorium the next day. Urine was cola coloured, and he gradually became anuric. Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, liver enzymes and creatinine kinase were elevated and hepatic dysfunction worsened. Noncontrast computerized tomography showed a bulky pancreas. The patient developed respiratory distress and had grade II gastrointestinal injury. He succumbed to his illness after 19 days. Hence, exertional heat injury is a concept separate from heatstroke. Genetic susceptibility and lack of expression of heat shock protein may contribute to multi-organ dysfunction. Keywords: Exertional heat illness, Intensive Care Unit, Acute Kidney Injury, Heat Shock Protein
Publication date: 01/04/2023

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2023/April/MS_IJBPAS_2023_7001.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2023/12.4.7001