- Hyperthermia is elevated body temperature due to failed thermoregulation that occurs when a body produces or absorbs more heat than it dissipates
- Extreme temperature elevation then becomes a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent disability or death
- Hyperthermia is defined as a temperature greater than 37.5–38.3 °C (99.5–100.9 °F), depending on the reference used.
- Body temperatures above 40 °C (104 °F) can be life-threatening.
- The most common causes are:
- Heatstroke.is due to exposure to excessive heat or heat with humidity.
- Adverse reactions to drugs.
- Malignant hyperthermia is a rare complication of some types of general anesthesia.
