[Neuroleptic malignant syndrome]

The neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is presumably caused by neuroleptic blockade of dopamine receptors, mainly in the basal ganglia and hypothalamus. Symptoms include hyperthermia, muscular rigidity, and elevated serum creatine phosphokinase level, also autonomic dysfunction and, facultatively, impairment of consciousness. Clinical features, differential diagnosis and pathogenesis are discussed, as well as therapy with standard drugs as well as intravenous lisuride.