Serotonin syndrome

Abstract

ABSTRACT Serotonin syndrome is a rare, life-threatening toxidrome caused by serotonergic agents. This syndrome classically presents with a combination of mental status changes, autonomic hyperactivity, and neuromuscular abnormalities. However, diagnosing the condition is difficult because of its variable symptoms at presentation. As a result, serotonin syndrome often is underreported, making it harder to understand, recognize, and treat. Patients with this condition may present to primary or urgent care or an ED, and may become acutely symptomatic during an inpatient admission. Clinicians must be able to identify at-risk patients and intervene to prevent potentially lethal complications.