Hyperthermia associated with 3,4‐methylenedioxyethamphetamine (‘Eve’)
Anaesthesia – June 01, 1993
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A patient presented with alarming symptoms: hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, and rhabdomyolysis, leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Initially suspected of MDMA use, toxicology revealed 3,4‐methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA) instead. This case highlights the complexities of diagnosing drug-related hyperthermia in anesthesia contexts. Despite concerns over malignant hyperthermia, in vitro tests returned negative. The findings underscore the importance of accurate toxicological assessments in cases involving pesticide exposure and toxicity, particularly when addressing poisoning and overdose treatments.
Abstract
Summary A patient was admitted with hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, rhabdomyolysis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. He was initially thought to have taken 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ‘Ecstasy’), but subsequent toxicology revealed the presence of 3,4‐methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDEA, ‘Eve’), its sister drug, in his blood. Subsequent in vitro testing for malignant hyperthermia proved to be negative.