[Neuroleptic malignant syndrome]

Abstract

The neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially lethal form of neuroleptic drug-induced hyperthermia, altered level of consciousness, extrapyramidal effects, autonomic instability and muscle rigidity. The present review describes pathophysiology, frequency, course, outcome, mortality and management of NMS in prehospital care and emergency department care. Review discusses clinical features, diagnosis differentiation of this hyperpyretic-rigidity syndrome from other disorders and prevention of this serious iatrogenic condition as life-threatening disorder.