The neuroleptic malignant syndrome, so-called. A survey of the world literature.

Because of its rarity, the neuroleptic malignant syndrome has been studied in a survey of the world literature. Similar conditions which occurred before the advent of neuroleptics have also been included, as they may indicate that the drugs are not totally to blame. It is also apparent that with modern treatments, the condition is not usually lethal. The implications of this for theories of dopaminergic disturbances underlying the mental illnesses involved are considered. An overall picture of the syndrome, its treatment and outcome, is presented from over 200 published references. The spread of recognition of the condition throughout the world and especially across linguistic barriers has been followed.