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Chapter 32 - Psychiatric Care of the Medical Patient

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Serotonin Syndrome

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2025

By
Lindsey S. Pershern  and
Robert J. Boland
Edited by
Marsal Sanches  and
Jair C. Soares
Marsal Sanches
Affiliation:
McGovern Medical School, Texas
Jair C. Soares
Affiliation:
McGovern Medical School, Texas
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Summary

Psychiatrists are often called to see nonpsychiatric patients in medical settings. Two potential reasons for a consult are neuroleptic malignant syndrome and serotonin syndrome; both are potential emergencies. They differ in cause and pathophysiology. However, they have certain things in common: Both are rare and may go unrecognized or misdiagnosed. In addition, the course of both syndromes depends on the speed of intervention, and delays can result in lasting complications or mortality. This chapter reviews the features of each syndrome, the diagnosis and differential, and the recommended treatment approaches.

Keywords

Antipsychotic agentsBasal Ganglia DiseasesChemically Induced DisordersDopamineDrug-Related Side Effects and Adverse ReactionsNeuroleptic Malignant SyndromeNeurotoxicity SyndromesSelective Serotonin Reuptake InhibitorsSerotoninSerotonin Syndrome
Type
Chapter
Information
Fundamentals of Clinical Psychiatry
A Practical Handbook
 , pp. 326 - 338
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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