Early and longtime modifications of temperature regulation after severe head injury. Prognostic implications.

Abstract

In summary, despite almost normal body temperatures in thermoneutrality, thermoregulatory characteristics in posttrauma patients are evidently altered and modified. These changes make the patients more susceptible to variations of the ambient temperatures and reduce their ability to counteract heat loads. They are more in danger of suffering heat stroke under external thermal load and during work or sport activities. In certain cases this could mean an important reduction of the daily quality of life.