Which physical symptoms are associated with Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in patients treated with antipsychotic medications, particularly the typical neuroleptics. The hallmark physical symptoms associated with NMS include fever, muscle rigidity, and autonomic instability.

Fever is a common feature and often presents as a significant rise in body temperature, which can sometimes reach dangerous levels. Rigidity refers to extreme muscular stiffness and is often accompanied by other motor symptoms such as bradykinesia or altered mental status. Autonomic instability can manifest in various ways, including fluctuating blood pressure, tachycardia, and diaphoresis, contributing to the clinical picture of NMS.

This combination of symptoms distinguishes NMS from other conditions and emphasizes the urgent need for recognition and immediate medical intervention. The understanding of these signs is crucial for healthcare providers, especially when managing patients at risk of developing this syndrome due to antipsychotic treatment.