Abnormalities of Thermal Regulation and the Nervous System

Thermoregulatory regions in the hypothalamus maintain the body temperature near 37°C (98.6°F). A variety of disorders affecting the hypothalamus or effector pathways (notably those involved in shivering or sweating) can impair thermoregulation, causing either hyperthermia or hypothermia. In most cases of hyperthermia or hypothermia, however, the thermoregulatory system is intact and simply overwhelmed by environmental conditions. The nervous system is highly sensitive to the effects of body temperature, so neurologic symptoms are prominent in patients with hyperthermia or hypothermia. Hyperthermia is managed by treating the underlying cause when possible, cooling the patient, and addressing common systemic complications. Hypothermia is similarly managed by treating the underlying cause when possible, warming the patient, and addressing common systemic complications.