[Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: a review of literature]

Abstract

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by altered consciousness, fever, extrapyramidal signs and autonomic instability. Although originally described in patients receiving neuroleptic drugs, this syndrome may also occur in patients who were taking a wide variety of medications. It is a rare and potentially lethal idiosyncratic reaction that occurs after therapeutic rather than toxic doses of neuroleptics drugs and is unrelated to the duration of therapy. The implications of dopaminergic disturbances underlying the mental illnesses involved are considered. Treatment of the neuroleptic malignant syndrome involves, first of all, supportive measures and withdrawal of the neuroleptic drugs therapy.