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44 y/o pt with schizophrenia is admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit. After several days pt has muscle tremor, ataxia, twitching, diarrhea, restlessness, vomiting, polyuria, and stupor. Dx?

User Yisu
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The patient likely has neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a severe reaction to antipsychotic medications causing symptoms that resemble Parkinson's disease and require emergency treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The 44-year-old patient with schizophrenia exhibiting muscle tremor, ataxia, twitching, diarrhea, restlessness, vomiting, polyuria, and stupor may be experiencing side effects often associated with antipsychotic medications, which could suggest a diagnosis of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening condition. Antipsychotics can lead to Parkinson's disease-like symptoms due to their dopamine receptor blocking action, which decreases dopamine neurotransmission in the brain. However, the clinical picture here is that of an acute and severe drug reaction, indicating NMS. Emergency medical treatment is crucial.

User Seydou
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