Catatonic signs in neuroleptic malignant syndrome

The study assessed catatonic signs in neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Records of inpatients meeting both stringent research criteria and DSM-IV criteria (n = 11) or only DSM-IV criteria (n = 5) for NMS were identified. The records were systematically rated on a 23-item rating scale for the pre sence of catatonic signs. Scores for NMS severity were related to the numbe r of catatonic signs. Fifteen patients met both research criteria for catat onia acid DSM-IV motor criteria for organic catatonia. The severity scores of NMS correlated with the number of catatonic signs (Spearman p = +.71, P < .005). We conclude that multiple catatonic signs are present in NMS and t he severity of NMS predicts the number of catatonic signs. Copyright (C) 20 00 by W.B. Saunders Company.