A case report of malignant hyperthermia in a patient with myotonic dystrophy type I A CARE-compliant article

Rationale: Several hereditary myopathies that can predispose to malignant hyperthermia (MH) are reported. However, the risk of MH in myotonic dystrophy type I (DM1) has been suggested equal to general population, although the evidence is limited to only a few case reports. Patient concerns: We encountered a rare case of MH during anesthesia induction with sevoflurane in a male adolescent with previously undiagnosed DM1. Diagnoses: After the event, genetic testing revealed the presence of a previously unknown heterozygous missense mutation in ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) associated with MH (c.6898T > C; p.ser2300Pro). Concomitantly, the patient was diagnosed with DM1 with abnormal cytosine-thymine-guanine triplet expansion in the DMPK gene. Interventions: Dantrolene was administered to treat the hypermetabolic manifestations in 20 minutes after the identification of MH. Outcomes: The patient was successfully treated and discharged without any complications. Laboratory abnormalities were recovered to baseline at postoperative 4 days. Lessons: The authors suggest that possible MH susceptibility in DM1 patients may be refocused. Genetic testing can be a screening tool for MH susceptibility in these population, prior to receiving general anesthesia.

Automated summary

This case report highlights a rare occurrence of MH in an undiagnosed DM1 patient during anesthesia induction. Genetic testing played a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment, suggesting a potential susceptibility to MH in DM1 patients.