Document Type
Article
Department
Medicine
Abstract
Background: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a medical entity that has received little attention in the clinical settings in Pakistan. The aim of our study was to review the predisposing factors, outcomes and characteristics of in-patients diagnosed with NMS.
Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of all cases (age > 15 years) at a tertiary care center in Karachi between January 01, 1990 and November 30, 2001, diagnosed using ICD 10 coding. Data was collected using a standardized data entry form and statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info 6, Version 6.02.
Results: There were a total of 20 patients diagnosed with NMS (11 male and 9 female) in our study with a mean age of 46.6±15.9 years. Haloperidol was the most frequently responsible neuroleptic. Of the 18 patients on a neuroleptic, most developed NMS after 8 weeks of therapy. There were 5 mortalities all of which were associated with septic shock. Fourteen patients recovered completely from the episode and did not have any neurologic sequelae.
Conclusions: NMS is an important preventable clinical entity. Early diagnosis and judicious use of antipsychotics is warranted to prevent mortality and heightened morbidity.
Key Words: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, antipsychotics, predisposing factors
Publication ( Name of Journal)
Journal of Ayub Medical College
Recommended Citation
Khan, H. M.,
Syed, N. A.,
Sheerani, M.,
Khealani, B.,
Kamal, A.,
Wasay, M.
(2006). Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: need for early diagnosis and therapy. Journal of Ayub Medical College, 18(1), 17-21.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/pakistan_fhs_mc_med_med/142