Neuroleptic malignant syndrome and preexisting brain damage.
A case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is described in a congenitally brain-damaged deaf patient. The literature suggests that NMS in patients with organic brain syndrome is induced by a reduction of marginal stores of dopamine in the hypothalamus and basal ganglia resulting from dopamine-blocking activity of neuroleptics, even at conventionally low doses. Brain-damaged patients should be recognized as being at higher risk of developing NMS.
Lazarus
A
A
Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
D000328:Adult; D001925:Brain Damage, Chronic / Q000150:complications* / Q000151:congenital / Q000175:diagnosis; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006220:Haloperidol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009459:Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D009460:Neurologic Examination / Q000187:drug effects; D010634:Phenobarbital / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects
D006220:Haloperidol; D010634:Phenobarbital