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Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

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Movement Disorder Emergencies

Part of the book series: Current Clinical Neurology ((CCNEU))

Abstract

Since the original description of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) over 50 years ago, a wealth of clinical data has accumulated on the clinical features, treatment, and pathogenesis of this uncommon but potentially lethal drug reaction. As a result, substantial progress has been achieved in reducing the incidence and mortality of NMS by increasing acceptance, awareness, and recognition of the disorder, more conservative prescribing practices, reduction of proposed risk factors, and development and marketing of newer antipsychotics with less liability for extrapyramidal side effects. Early diagnosis, cessation of neuroleptic medications, prompt medical intervention, and consideration of specific remedies comprise the mainstay of management. Nevertheless, vigilance must be maintained, as NMS remains obscure to most clinicians in practice. It is therefore essential for all physicians to become familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of this serious and treatable drug reaction.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the University of Pennsylvania, University & Woodland Avenues, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA

    Stanley N. Caroff M.D.

  2. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, The University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA

    Stephan C. Mann M.D.

  3. Central Montgomery Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center, Norristown, PA, USA

    Stephan C. Mann M.D.

  4. Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Kenneth A. Sullivan Ph.D. & E. Cabrina Campbell M.D.

Authors
  1. Stanley N. Caroff M.D.
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  2. Stephan C. Mann M.D.
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  3. Kenneth A. Sullivan Ph.D.
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  4. E. Cabrina Campbell M.D.
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Stanley N. Caroff M.D. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. , Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, West 168th St. Suite 310 710, New York, 10032, USA

    Steven J. Frucht

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Caroff, S.N., Mann, S.C., Sullivan, K.A., Campbell, E.C. (2013). Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome. In: Frucht, S. (eds) Movement Disorder Emergencies. Current Clinical Neurology. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60761-835-5_4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60761-835-5_4

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  • Publisher Name: Humana Press, Totowa, NJ

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