Anesthetic management of a pediatric patient with neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare disorder which is clinically similar to malignant hyperthermia (MH). It is characterized by hyperthermia, autonomic instability, muscle rigidity, coma, rhabdomyolysis, and acidosis. Without immediate and appropriate therapy, mortality may result. NMS is associated with administration of antipsychotic medications, anti-emetic medications, and changes in the dosage of anti-parkinsonian drugs. As several similarities exist between NMS and MH, differentiating between them can be a challenge for the clinician. We report anesthetic care during magnetic resonance imaging of the brain of a 14-year-old female with bipolar and schizoaffective disorders and the recent onset of NMS.