A case of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is described in a
congenitally brain-damaged deaf patient. The literature suggests that NMS
in patients with organic brain syndrome is induced by a reduction of
marginal stores of dopamine in the hypothalamus and basal ganglia resulting
from dopamine-blocking activity of neuroleptics, even at conventionally low
doses. Brain-damaged patients should be recognized as being at higher risk
of developing NMS.
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