Safe inducing agent in malignant hyperpyrexia is
**Core Concept**
Malignant hyperpyrexia, also known as malignant hyperthermia, is a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by an uncontrolled rise in body temperature, muscle rigidity, and metabolic acidosis. It is triggered by certain volatile anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants. The condition is caused by an abnormality in the ryanodine receptor (RyR) gene, leading to an excessive release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The safe inducing agent in malignant hyperpyrexia is fentanyl, a potent opioid analgesic that does not trigger the abnormal calcium release associated with malignant hyperthermia. Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, reducing the transmission of pain signals. Its mechanism of action is distinct from that of volatile anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants, making it a safer choice for inducing anesthesia in patients susceptible to malignant hyperthermia.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Halothane is a volatile anesthetic that can trigger malignant hyperthermia by releasing calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. It is not a safe inducing agent in patients with this condition.
* **Option B:** Succinylcholine is a depolarizing muscle relaxant that can also trigger malignant hyperthermia by releasing calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. It is not a safe inducing agent in patients with this condition.
* **Option C:** Isoflurane is another volatile anesthetic that can trigger malignant hyperthermia by releasing calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. It is not a safe inducing agent in patients with this condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Fentanyl is a safe inducing agent in malignant hyperpyrexia because it does not trigger the abnormal calcium release associated with this condition. However, it is essential to use a non-depolarizing muscle relaxant, such as rocuronium or vecuronium, to facilitate endotracheal intubation in patients with malignant hyperthermia.
**Correct Answer: D. Fentanyl**