title: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
abstract: The neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially fatal complication of antipsychotic drugs. It is characterized by severe muscular rigidity, hyperthermia, and autonomic disturbances. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is easily confused with other health problems; distinctions between it and malignant hyperthermia, heatstroke, and lethal catatonia are made. The relevant literature is reviewed; a case history is presented; and implications for nursing care (e.g., early detection) are discussed.
authors.forename: N L
authors.initials: NL
authors.lastname: Keltner
authors.forename: C W
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: McIntyre
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001971:Bromocriptine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002389:Catatonia / Q000175:diagnosis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006359:Heat Exhaustion / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008305:Malignant Hyperthermia / Q000175:diagnosis; D008875:Middle Aged; D009459:Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D001971:Bromocriptine