Respiratory dyskinesia is a common but under-recognized side effect of
chronic neuroleptic administration. It manifests as irregular respiration,
dyspnea, grunting or gasping, and abnormal chest or esophageal movements.
It occurs almost exclusively in association with other tardive effects of
neuroleptics, such as tardive dyskinesia and tardive akathisia.
Complications of the disorder include respiratory alkalosis and aspiration
pneumonia. The authors describe 5 patients with respiratory dyskinesia
whose cases highlight the important clinical features of
neuroleptic-induced respiratory dyskinesia and the manner in which some
cases may be misdiagnosed. They also review the literature on this syndrome
and discuss the likely pathophysiological mechanisms.Abstract Teaser