A fatal case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
A fatal case of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) affecting a middle-aged woman is presented. Most of the signs and symptoms described for NMS were present and death occurred three hours after the onset of hyperpyrexia. Laboratory and postmortem findings were non-specific. The uses and risks of Haloperidol and Phenelzine on a patient with severe liver impairment are considered. Finally, the medico-legal implications in the context of sudden unexpected death are mentioned.
Lannas
P A
PA
Department of Forensic Medicine, London Hospital Medical College.
Pachar
J V
JV
D000328:Adult; D056487:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury, Chronic; D005260:Female; D006220:Haloperidol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000139:chemically induced; D009459:Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D010624:Phenelzine / Q000009:adverse effects*
D006220:Haloperidol; D010624:Phenelzine