Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome(NMS) is a rare entity but potentially life-threatening neurologic emergency.Acute blockade of the nigrostriatal and hypothalamic dopamine pathways are believed to result in the signs and symptoms of NMS.These include Parkinsonian features,such as rigidity and tremor,autonomic dysfunction,altered mental status and hyperthermia.NMS is a self-limited iatrogenic disorder.In many cases medical management and cessation of antipsychotic medication may suffice to reverse the symptoms,and careful administration of antipsychotic medication should be sufficient.