Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

Which disorder is characterized by a hypermetabolic response to inhalation agents?

1. Sepsis

2. Malignant hyperthermia

3. Anaphylaxis

4. Hypothermia

The correct answer is: Malignant hyperthermia

The disorder characterized by a hypermetabolic response to inhalation anesthetic agents is malignant hyperthermia. This condition is a life-threatening reaction that can occur in susceptible individuals when exposed to certain anesthetics, especially volatile agents like halothane, sevoflurane, and isoflurane, as well as the neuromuscular blocker succinylcholine. In malignant hyperthermia, there is an uncontrolled release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle cells, leading to increased metabolic activity, muscle rigidity, and ultimately a hypermetabolic state. This results in a rapid rise in body temperature, increased oxygen consumption, and production of carbon dioxide. The increased metabolic demands can lead to complications such as acidosis and organ failure if not treated promptly. The other conditions listed, while serious, do not specifically involve the hypermetabolic response triggered by inhalation agents. For instance, sepsis involves an infection leading to systemic inflammation, anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction, and hypothermia is characterized by a dangerously low body temperature, none of which directly relate to the specific hypermetabolic response associated with anesthetic exposure.