ABSTRACT
A case of susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia, diagnosed by muscle biopsy during
the first trimester of pregnancy, is presented. Pertinent medical history that might
raise this suspicion is reviewed. The pathophysiology of malignant hyperthermia is
discussed. Recent reports documenting the placental transfer of dantrolene and complications
associated with dantrolene administration during labor are described. The pharmacology
of dantrolene sodium is presented. Guidelines regarding the management of labor and
delivery in patients susceptible to malignant hyperthermia are outlined. Suggestions
for counseling patients and their children with this syndrome are reviewed.
