Real Families. Real Diagnoses. Real Peace of Mind.
Explore how early genetic screening can save lives.
Malignant Hyperthermia — A Life Saved on the Operating Table
Note: Real cases, names and ages have been changed for privacy.
The Family
Anna and Mike opted for a Fore Genomics screen when their daughter Maya was 6 months old. Maya was healthy, and the test felt like a “just in case” measure.
The Genetic Finding
The screen revealed a mutation in the RYR1 gene, which puts individuals at risk for malignant hyperthermia (MH)—a rare, but often fatal reaction to certain anesthesia drugs.
The Impact
When Maya needed emergency surgery at age 3, her doctors avoided the specific anesthetic drugs known to cause dangerous reactions in people with MH.
The surgical team prepared the OR with MH precautions.
Maya’s surgery went smoothly, and she made a full recovery.
What started as a precaution ended up being a life-saving decision. Knowing Maya’s risk meant her doctors were ready.
Why It Matters
Most people with MH don’t know until it’s too late. A simple screen gave Maya's care team a crucial heads-up—and gave her parents peace of mind.
Final Takeaway
Genetic screening is not about fear — it’s about preparation. These case studies show how insights from DNA can:
Prevent emergencies
Enable early treatment
Guide lifelong health decisions
Sometimes what you don’t know can hurt you. Genetic screening gave Maya’s family and her doctors the chance to avoid a tragedy.