Brain Injury
The primary temperature sensitive elements of neural cells are mitochondrial and plasma membranes.20 The protein structures within these structures become disrupted and may undergo irreversible abnormalities at temperatures even above 40°C.20 This is potentiated by hypoxia.20 Children with their rapidly developing brain cells may be at greater risk than adults, and while some cell death occurs quickly, other cells may undergo a prolonged period of apoptosis.20 Purkinje cells seem to be the most at risk, showing cellular changes to the greatest extent.20 As a consequence, the cerebellum may undergo the greatest damage with loss of motor control.20 This has been the case in the subject described above, with on-going deficits in gait function, bimanual motor control, and coordination.