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Behavioural Neurology logoLink to Behavioural Neurology
. 2005 Aug 4;16(1):9–13. doi: 10.1155/2005/471260

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Dilemmas

Abebaw Fekadu 1,*, Jonathan I Bisson 2
PMCID: PMC5478846  PMID: 16082075

Abstract

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life threatening medical state complicating the use of antipsychotic medications and other drugs that affect the dopaminergic system on administration or withdrawal. The condition was recognised nearly half a century ago, shortly after the discovery of antipsychotic medications. However, there are still no systematic studies about NMS. There are no definitive guidelines on its treatment. Although early recognition is emphasised and usually possible, delayed diagnosis is not rare. We here report on a case of NMS complicated by renal failure, and possibly respiratory failure. The report underscores the seriousness of delayed diagnosis and puts forward a comprehensive management recommendation based on our experience and the existing literature.


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