Is Malignant Hyperthermia Genetic?

Malignant hyperthermia susceptibility (MHS) is caused by a genetic defect (mutation). The abnormal gene increases your risk of malignant hyperthermia when you're exposed to certain anesthesia medications that trigger a reaction. The abnormal gene is most commonly inherited, usually from one parent who also has it.

How malignant hyperthermia is inherited?

Malignant hyperthermia susceptibility is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern , which means one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to increase the risk of a severe reaction to certain drugs used during surgery.

Who is most likely to get malignant hyperthermia?

Malignant hyperthermia is an inherited syndrome. If one parent has the gene for the syndrome, the baby has a 50 percent chance of inheriting it. Most cases occur in people in their early 20s. Some studies show that men are more at risk than women to develop malignant hyperthermia.