Positron emission tomographic studies of changes in cerebral blood flow and oxygen metabolism in neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Three patients with neuroleptic malignant syndrome were studied by positron emission tomography (PET), using the steady-state technique with C15O2 and 15O2. In 2 patients the PET examination was repeated after resolution of the syndrome. In 2 patients, under treatment with bromocriptine, high blood flow and oxygen metabolism were demonstrated in the striatum, cerebellum and occipital cerebral cortex during the neuroleptic malignant phase, showing that not only the dopaminergic system is disturbed but also other neurotransmitter systems are involved. In the 3rd case the PET scan findings were not as conclusive.