Occult Core Hyperthermia Complicating Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock severely limits tissue perfusion. Conventional therapy of cardiogenic shock is directed at increasing cardiac output; however, decreasing oxygen demand by recognition and control of core (central thoracic) hyperthermia is also helpful. Core hyperthermia complicating cardiogenic shock has been reported in adults but not in children. In the last year, we treated three children with cardiogenic shock in whom core temperature was much higher than rectal temperature. Without central temperature measurement, this occult core hyperthermia would not have been recognized or treated. Treatment of core hyperthermia combined with standard therapy (mechanical ventilation, inotropes, and vasodilators) resulted in long-term survival of all patients.