Recognition and management of perioperative serotonin syndrome

Abstract

Mild forms of serotonin syndrome can potentially be fatal, if not recognized. The increased use of serotonergic agents makes the awareness of its prevalence, various presentations, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment a clinical imperative. It is important to note that serotonin syndrome can only be diagnosed clinically in the presence of 3 clinical criteria: mental status changes, autonomic manifestations, and neuromuscular abnormalities. This case report describes a patient who underwent an uncomplicated closed nasal fracture reduction and subsequently developed serotonin syndrome.