Because salicylates uncouple oxidative phosphorylation in skeletal muscle, excessive heat production is probably responsible for the hyperthermia seen in some children with severe aspirin toxicity. The hyperthermia that may accompany thyroid storm and pheochromocytoma crisis also results from increased heat production, triggered in these cases by the calorigenic properties of thyroid hormones and catecholamines. The hyperthermia of dehydration is usually mild and is readily corrected by fluid replacement. Anticholinergic drugs may impair heat dissipation by reducing sweat production. Occlusive dressings interfere with heat loss by radiation and may thus lead to hyperthermia.
Hypothalamic disorders are uncommon causes of hyperthermia.