Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening genetic reaction to certain anesthesia drugs that causes rapid increase in body temperature and severe muscle rigidity. It is caused by mutations in genes controlling calcium release in muscle cells, triggered by volatile anesthetics like sevoflurane or the muscle relaxant succinylcholine. The Suxamethonium IgE test is the most important screening test for identifying allergies to succinylcholine, helping assess potential risk before surgery.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Malignant hyperthermia is caused by genetic mutations in the RYR1 or CACNA1S genes that control calcium release in muscle cells. When people with these mutations are exposed to certain anesthesia drugs like sevoflurane, desflurane, isoflurane, or the muscle relaxant succinylcholine, their muscles release excessive calcium, leading to severe muscle contractions, dangerously high fever, and potentially fatal complications. This inherited condition runs in families, so anyone with a family history of malignant hyperthermia reactions should inform their anesthesiologist before any surgery requiring general anesthesia.
The Suxamethonium IgE test is the most important blood screening test for malignant hyperthermia risk because it detects allergic antibodies to succinylcholine, a common anesthesia drug that can trigger reactions. Elevated IgE levels indicate an allergy to this medication, and people with such allergies may have increased risk during surgery. However, the gold standard for diagnosing malignant hyperthermia susceptibility is the caffeine halothane contracture test, a specialized muscle biopsy procedure performed at specific medical centers. Genetic testing for RYR1 and CACNA1S gene mutations can also identify inherited risk. The IgE blood test serves as an accessible screening tool to identify potential anesthesia drug sensitivities before surgical procedures.
You should get tested if you have a family history of malignant hyperthermia or unexplained deaths during surgery, if you or a family member experienced muscle rigidity or extremely high fever during anesthesia, or if you are planning surgery and have unexplained muscle weakness or periodic episodes of muscle breakdown. Testing is especially important before any elective surgery requiring general anesthesia, so your anesthesiologist can plan safe alternatives and have emergency medications like dantrolene available. Early identification of risk can be lifesaving, as malignant hyperthermia reactions can occur within minutes of anesthesia exposure.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
505 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Lab Guide
Quick questions:
