Paroxysmal sympathetic storm.

INTRODUCTION

Paroxysmal sympathetic storm (PSS) is a rare syndrome characterized by episodic hypertension, hyperhydrosis, hyperthermia, tachycardia, tachypnea, and extensor posturing.

CASE REPORTS: This article describes two cases of PSS: one following traumatic brain injury and the other following cardiac arrest.

DISCUSSION: The first responded to labetalol, morphine, and codeine, whereas the second responded to labetalol.

CONCLUSION

These observations underscore the importance of central opioid receptors and nonselective beta-adrenergic antagonists in modulating catecholamine pathways.