Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in pregnancy.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome can be a serious neurologic complication of drug therapy during pregnancy.

CASE:

A young woman was admitted to the intensive care unit with worsening varicella pneumonia. After being given haldol for agitation, she developed fever, increasing agitation, rigidity, tachycardia, and tremors; she was diagnosed as having neuroleptic malignant syndrome. She was treated successfully with bromocriptine and dantrolene.

CONCLUSION:

Despite the common use of antipsychotic medications, neuroleptic malignant syndrome is seen infrequently during pregnancy. The diagnosis can be difficult to make, but if suspected, it can be treated successfully.

• Authors: C S Russell, C Lang, M McCambridge, B Calhoun
• Journal: Obstetrics and gynecology (Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 98 Issue 5 Pt 2 Pg. 906-8 (Nov 2001) ISSN: 0029-7844 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11704197 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antipsychotic Agents
• Haloperidol

Topics

• Antipsychotic Agents (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Female
• Haloperidol (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
• Pneumonia, Viral (psychology)
• Pregnancy
• Pregnancy Complications (chemically induced)
• Pregnancy Complications, Infectious (psychology)
• Psychomotor Agitation (drug therapy)