[Neuroleptic malignant syndrome]

The paper defines neuroleptic malignant syndrome and analyses its incidence, predisposing factors, etiology, pathological anatomy and pathogenetic hypotheses. Symptomatology consists of three principal symptoms: extrapyramidal symptoms, hyperthermia, deregulation of the autonomic nervous system. The differential diagnosis of other similar conditions is outlined together with a proposal for a treatment protocol. Emphasis is laid on the importance of prevention.