Abstract Objectives Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a result of treatment with antipsychotic medications. This syndrome is characterized by a range of symptoms, including hyperthermia, altered mental status, autonomic dysregulation, and generalized muscle rigidity. NMS is believed to be caused by a disruption in the dopaminergic system within the central nervous system. Methods A 29-year-old female patient was admitted to the intensive care unit with a diagnosis of NMS. The patient was diagnosed with psychotic disorder and she was started on paliperidone palmitate, a long-acting antipsychotic, for the treatment of psychotic exacerbation, and on the 1st and 8th days, a loading dose was administered. However, she was later transferred to the intensive care unit after developing symptoms including fever, rigidity, confusion, and elevated creatine phosphokinase. Results Improvement in the patient's general condition and swallowing function, as well as a reduction in rigidity observed in the upper extremities, have been observed starting from the second session of ECT treatment. Additionally, there was rapid improvement in the patient's autonomic functions. A total of 10 ECT sessions were administered to the patient, and it was determined that the patient benefited dramatically from the treatment. Conclusions The role of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in the management of NMS arising from long-acting antipsychotic treatment was discussed in this case presentation. Additionally, the focus was placed on the complications that may occur during the treatment period, emphasizing that early intervention can be both life-saving and effective.
GARIP et al. (Thu,) studied this question.