Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications.
• Haloperidol, a typical antipsychotic, is frequently implicated in NMS cases.

Observation:

• A 35-year-old male presented with symptoms of NMS, including coma, hypotension, rigidity, and hyperthermia (42.2°C).
• The patient was receiving moderately high, therapeutic doses of haloperidol.

Findings:

• The patient required intensive care, including intubation and mechanical ventilation, due to the severity of NMS.
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) developed and was successfully managed.
• The patient recovered with supportive care alone, without specific NMS pharmacotherapies like bromocriptine or dantrolene.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing NMS, even with standard haloperidol doses.
• Prompt supportive care is critical for patient survival and recovery from severe NMS.
• The case highlights that recovery is possible with intensive supportive measures, even when advanced therapies are not utilized.