Describe the neurolept malignant syndrome

Describe the neurolept malignant syndrome.

The clinical presentatipn of neurolept malignant syn-drome (NMS) includes fever, tachycardia, hypertension, muscle rigidity, acidosis, rhabdomyolysis, and agitation. Its mortality rate approximates 20% and dantrolene is an effective treatment. It is easily confused with MH.

NMS is distinguished from MH by several features. NMS follows long-term exposure to phenothiazines or haloperidol. Sudden withdrawal of anti-parkinsonism drugs may precipitate NMS.