Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: case report

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is an infrequent, but potentially life-threatening neurologic emergency associated with the use of neuroleptic or antipsychotic drugs. A 43 years old male with a history of trigeminal neuralgia developed Neuroleptic malignant syndrome while receiving Carbamazepine and Amitryptylline. Treatment is mainly supportive and includes withdrawal of the neuroleptic medication and, possibly, administration of drugs such as dantrolene and bromocriptine. Complications of NMS include acute renal failure and acute respiratory failure. The possible etiologies, triggering factors and treatment are discussed with reference to existing literature.