Anti-NMDA-Receptor encephalitis: Case report and literature review of an under-Recognized condition

Gregory S. Day, Sasha M. High, Bianca Cot, David F. Tang-Wai

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

74 Scopus citations

Abstract

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDA-R) encephalitis is an immune-mediated syndrome that remains under-recognized despite a growing body of literature. This syndrome has been predominantly described in young females with a constellation of symptoms, including personality changes, autonomic dysfunction and neurologic decompensation. It is commonly associated with mature ovarian teratomas.We describe the classic presentation of anti-NMDA-R encephalitis in three dramatically different patients: Case A, a young woman with ovarian teratoma; Case B, the eldest case reported to date; and Case C, a young male with no identifiable tumor.We review the literature summarizing the differential diagnosis, investigative approach, treatment options and challenges inherent to this disorder. We advocate good supportive care, involvement of multiple health disciplines and use of immune-modulating therapies in patient management. These cases underscore the need for increased awareness and high diagnostic suspicion when approaching the patient with suspected viral encephalitis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)811-816
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of general internal medicine
Volume26
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2011

Keywords

  • Aautoimmune
  • Encephalitis
  • NMDA-receptor
  • Teratoma

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