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Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Concurrent with COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report
Abstract:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which most often occurs after the use of antipsychotics, is a rare but life-threatening condition. In this article, a 56-year-old male patient with a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder (BPD) who developed NMS after a COVID-19 infection will be presented. The patient had been brought to the emergency room with high fever, fatigue, and slowness of movements that had been going on for two days. The examination revealed tachycardia, tachypnea, lethargy and rigidity. Upon further investigation the COVID-19 test came out positive and the serum levels of creatine kinase were considerably high. He was admitted to the psychiatric ward with diagnoses of COVID-19 infection and NMS. COVID-19 infection might have been a risk factor for NMS in this patient. Especially in patients who are taking antipsychotic drugs, if COVID-19 is present, the risk of NMS should be taken into consideration. Keyword: COVID-19, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, Risperidone, Antipsikotik, Enfeksiyon.
Insights
COVID-19 infection may increase the risk of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) in patients using antipsychotics. This case highlights the importance of considering COVID-19 as a potential risk factor for NMS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a rare, life-threatening condition often associated with antipsychotic use.
- Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition requiring long-term management, often involving antipsychotic medications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of NMS developing after COVID-19 infection in a patient with BPD.
- To explore the potential role of COVID-19 infection as a risk factor for NMS.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 56-year-old male patient diagnosed with BPD.
- Clinical presentation including fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, lethargy, and rigidity.
- Diagnostic investigations included COVID-19 testing and serum creatine kinase levels.
Main Results:
- The patient tested positive for COVID-19 and presented with symptoms consistent with NMS.
- Significantly elevated serum creatine kinase levels were observed.
- The patient was admitted with diagnoses of COVID-19 infection and NMS.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 infection may be a contributing risk factor for developing NMS, particularly in patients on antipsychotic medication.
- Clinicians should consider COVID-19 as a potential trigger for NMS in at-risk populations.
- Further research is warranted to understand the interaction between COVID-19 and antipsychotic-induced NMS.
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