Family history of primary movement disorders as a predictor for neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal symptoms

Background: A genetic susceptibility to extrapyramidal symptoms caused by treatment with neuroleptic medication has been suggested. Aims: To identify predictor variables for neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal symptoms, particularly considering family history of primary movement disorders. Method: We investigated 100 inpatients receiving a stable neuroleptic medication with regard to occurrence of extrapyramidal symptoms, drug history and detailed family history of primary movement disorders. Results: Step-wise logistic regression analysis revealed that a positive family history was a significant predictor for lifetime prevalence of extrapyramidal symptoms, including reported and currently observed symptoms. The duration of exposure to neuroleptic medication and age were further predictors. Conclusions: Our findings underline the notion of genetic susceptibility for secondary extrapyramidal symptoms and suggest possible shared genetic factors in primary and secondary movement disorders as well as psychotic disorders.