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Do cases of neuroleptic malignant syndrome cluster?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Phil Huckle ,
Alexander Kellam ,
Peter Williams ,
Amgad Tanaghow  and
Alan Lloyd
Phil Huckle
Affiliation:
Glanrhyd Hospital, Bridgend, Mid Glam
Alexander Kellam
Affiliation:
Whitchurch Hospital, Park Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff, South Glam. CF4 7XB, Wales
Peter Williams
Affiliation:
Whitchurch Hospital, Cardiff, South Glam
Amgad Tanaghow
Affiliation:
Sully Hospital, Cardiff
Alan Lloyd
Affiliation:
Glanrhyd Hospital, Bridgend, Mid Glam
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Abstract

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially fatal reaction to neuroleptic medication. Both the incidence and aetiology of the NMS are matters of considerable controversy. We present a clustering of cases of NMS in a distinct geographical area in South Wales. Five cases were reported in an eight month period in 1990 and more recently, a second cluster of three cases occurred in a three week period in November, 1991. We discuss some of the possible explanations for this apparent “epidemic” of cases in South Wales.

Keywords

NeurolepticsAdverse drug reactionNMSClustering
Type
Clinical & Brief Reports
Information
Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine , Volume 10 , Issue 1 , February 1993 , pp. 28 - 29
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1993

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