Definition:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a critical, life-threatening neurological disorder usually due to an adverse reaction neuroleptic or antipsychotic drugs.
Diagnosis:
Clinical manifestations combined with increased Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) level can confirm diagnosis of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome.
Treatment:
Supportive treatment is necessary for this disorder; initial action for the purpose of treatment is to discontinue administering the antipsychotic drug to the patient. Intensive care is needed in many cases and supportive care should be maintained at the minimum level. There may be necessary treatments in order to oppose the specific effects of the disorder including circulatory support and electroconvulsive therapy in case medication fails to improve the condition.
Symptoms and Signs:
Some of the most common symptoms observed in a person suffering form Neuroleptic malignant syndrome are the following:
* High fever
* Muscle rigidity or involuntary movement or contraction of muscles that is uncontrollable
* Autonomic instability
* Cognitive changes like delirium
* Unstable blood pressure
* Profuse sweating
* Rapid heart rate
* Rapid breathing
* Tremor
* Seizure
* Swallowing difficulties
* Speech difficulties
* Excessive salivation or drooling
Causes:
The fundamental causative factor for Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is antipsychotic drug and all other types of neuroleptic medications; the higher the dosage the more likely to suffer from this neurological disorder.
:
neurolepticmalignantsyndrome
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
