Neuroleptic malignant syndrome--a cautionary tale and a surprising outcome.

Abstract

Vigilance is required in order to detect the cardinal signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), especially after prolonged exposure to neuroleptics. In this case, NMS was diagnosed in a 29-year-old man, who had been on fluphenazine decanoate for over one year, coinciding with a cessation of his neuroleptic medication. Vigorous treatment, including assisted ventilation, was necessary, extending over three months. On recovery, his mental state and social functioning had undergone a sustained improvement sufficient for his release from hospital.