If tissue temperature exceeds 111.2 degrees Fahrenheit, what can occur?

If tissue temperature exceeds 111.2 degrees Fahrenheit, what can occur?

• A. Increased metabolism
• B. Thermal pain and irreversible tissue damage
• C. Hyperthermia without injury
• D. No effect

Answer: (B)

When tissue temperature reaches about 44°C (111.2°F), proteins begin to denature and enzymes lose function, membranes destabilize, and cellular energy production collapses. This rapid molecular disruption leads to cell death, so tissue injury becomes irreversible. The heat also activates pain receptors, so thermal pain is felt as exposure continues. In short, at this high temperature you don’t just get harmless warmth or a reversible effect; the damage progresses to irreversible tissue injury.

When tissue temperature reaches about 44°C (111.2°F), proteins begin to denature and enzymes lose function, membranes destabilize, and cellular energy production collapses. This rapid molecular disruption leads to cell death, so tissue injury becomes irreversible. The heat also activates pain receptors, so thermal pain is felt as exposure continues. In short, at this high temperature you don’t just get harmless warmth or a reversible effect; the damage progresses to irreversible tissue injury.