Death due to fulminant neuroleptic malignant syndrome induced by low doses of haloperidol: a rare case

J Forensic Leg Med. 2014 May:24:12-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jflm.2014.02.011. Epub 2014 Mar 6.

Abstract

The paper reports on a rare case of fulminant neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) with several risk factors, typical manifestation and rapid death induced by low doses of haloperidol. The pathological findings, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, risk factors and other features of NMS are discussed. The importance of forensic pathologists being aware of the possibility of NMS as the cause of death in people taking antipsychotic drugs is stressed.

Keywords: Death; Forensic pathology; Haloperidol; Low dose; Neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Creatinine / analysis
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Haloperidol / administration & dosage
  • Haloperidol / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Leukocytosis / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy
  • Tachycardia / chemically induced
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome / chemically induced

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Creatinine
  • Haloperidol