CJEM Articles: serotonin syndrome

Displaying 1-2 of 2 results

  • Diagnostic uncertainty in a case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome
    July 2005 7 4
    Dallas P. Seitz

    Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that has been associated with antipsychotic use. Most diagnostic criteria include fever and muscle rigidity, although NMS may present without either. Diagnostic uncertainty in such cases may result in delays in diagnosis and management, leading to adverse consequences for these patients. The differential diagnosis of NMS is broad and includes a number of neurological, medical and psychiatric conditions as well as substance and medication-induced disorders. A case is described that illustrates an atypical presentation of NMS and demonstrates some of the challenges in its diagnosis. Limitations of current NMS criteria are also examined, and suggestions for future criteria are presented.

  • Serotonin syndrome due to an overdose of moclobemide?
    March 2002 4 2
    Andrew Ip, Tia Renouf

    Serotonin syndrome, a triad of autonomic instability, altered mental status and neuromuscular abnormalities, is usually attributed to serotonergic overdoses. Moclobemide is a new selective monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that generally causes mild, self-limited gastrointestinal and central nervous system effects after ingestion. We present a case of serotonin syndrome that occurred after moclobemide overdose, and discuss the recognition and treatment of this important condition. Serotonin syndrome may become increasingly common because of the liberal use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, new MAOIs and other agents such as codeine and meperidine, which have the potential for harmful interaction.