Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: A Case of Unknown Causation and Unique Clinical Course

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare, potentially lethal syndrome known to be related to the initiation of dopamine antagonist medications or rapid withdrawal of dopaminergic medications. It is a diagnosis of exclusion with a known sequela of symptoms, but not all patients experience these...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inCurēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 13; no. 3; p. e14113
Main Authors Olson, Brooke J, Dhariwal, Mohan S
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States Cureus 25.03.2021
Subjects
Internal Medicine
Neurology
Psychiatry
neuroleptic medications
adverse drug reaction
neuroleptic malignant syndrome
neuroleptics
neuropharmacology
antipsychotic medications
psychotic disorder
dopamine
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Summary:Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare, potentially lethal syndrome known to be related to the initiation of dopamine antagonist medications or rapid withdrawal of dopaminergic medications. It is a diagnosis of exclusion with a known sequela of symptoms, but not all patients experience these characteristic symptoms making it difficult at times to diagnose and treat. Herein, we present a unique case of NMS with unclear etiology and a unique clinical course. Our case report also raises the question of whether or not adjusting doses of previously prescribed neuroleptic medications can provoke NMS, providing valuable information for providers treating these complex patients.
ISSN:2168-8184
2168-8184
DOI:10.7759/cureus.14113