Difficulties in diagnosing neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Authors

• Monica S. Zolezzi, Department of Pharmaceutical Services, L-532 Armed Forces Hospital, PO Box 7897, Riyadh 11159, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Tel./Fax. +966 (1) 4777714 Ext. 3432. E-mail: monizolezzi{at}yahoo.com
• Abdullah M. Al-Hathloul, Department of Psychiatry, Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital, PO Box 7897, Riyadh 11159, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

This report describes a recent case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare adverse effect of antipsychotic medications. Assessment of the neuroleptic malignant syndrome was carried out by using the Naranjo Algorithm Probability Scale which resulted in a highly probable reaction to haloperidol. The difficulties in establishing the diagnosis in this patient lead to late intervention resulting in a slow recovery and prolonged hospitalization. Our objective in this presentation is to highlight the importance of early recognition of this potentially fatal adverse drug reaction.

Article Type

Case Report

First Page

234

Last Page

236

Recommended Citation

Zolezzi, Monica S. and Al-Hathloul, Abdullah M. (2002) "Difficulties in diagnosing neuroleptic malignant syndrome," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 23: Iss. 2, Article 21.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/1658-3175.1631