Pathophysiology of Heat-Related Illnesses
Abstract
Heat illnesses are best viewed as existing along a continuum, transitioning from the mild conditions of heat cramps and heat exhaustion to the life-threatening condition of heatstroke. Environmental heat exposure is one of the most deadly natural hazards in the United States, with approximately 200 heatstroke deaths per year. Although the majority of heatstroke deaths are observed in vulnerable populations during annual heat waves, young fit individuals may also succumb to heatstroke while engaging in strenuous activities such as athletic competitions, military operations, or occupational tasks. Multiorgan system failure is the ultimate cause of heatstroke death, and there is complex interplay among the physiologic and environmental factors that compromise an individuals' ability to adequately respond to heat stress. The pathophysiology of heatstroke is thought to be caused by a systemic inflammatory response that occurs in response to endotoxin leakage from the gut, but there remains limited understanding of the mechanisms that mediate morbidity and mortality. This chapter provides an overview of the pathophysiologic responses that are observed in patients and experimental animal models at the time of heatstroke collapse and during long-term recovery. A brief discussion is provided on current clinical heatstroke treatments and promising avenues of research that may aid in the development of more effective interventions and/or treatments to prevent this debilitating illness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA559070
Entities
People
- Lisa R. Leon
- Robert Kenefick
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine