Neuroleptic malignant syndrome related to use of clozapine.
A 19-year-old man presented to a community hospital with a sudden change in level of consciousness, fever, and muscle rigidity. The patient had a history of schizophrenia and was being treated with clozapine. Despite a high index of suspicion for neuroleptic malignant syndrome, definitive care was delayed for more than 24 hours after the patient was transferred to a tertiary care center. This case illustrates the importance of primary care physicians being able to recognize and diagnose this syndrome, particularly as the use of atypical antipsychotic agents increases.
Trayer
J S
JS
Penn State Hershey Medical Center, USA.
Fidler
D C
DC
D000328:Adult; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003024:Clozapine / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009459:Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome / Q000209:etiology*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D003024:Clozapine