NMDA ENCEFALITIS CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Encephalitis has many causes, but for most patients, the cause still remains unknown. Worldwide, up to 85% of cases are of unknown cause, and there is concern about new and emerging triggers. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDA-R) encephalitis is an immunemediated syndrome that remains under-recognized despite a growing body of literature.[1,2] 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.[3] We describe the classic presentation of anti-NMDA-R encephalitis in a young woman, with antecedents in psychiatric disorders which is hospitalized in the Infectious Disease Hospital, UHC Mother Theresa with the admission diagnosis: Acute Viral Encephalitis. We reviewed the literature summarizing the differential diagnosis, investigative approach and therapeutic options related to this disorder[4,5]. We succeed to give good supportive care and involve multiple health disciplines. This case highlights the need for increased awareness and high diagnostic suspicion when approaching the patient with suspected viral encephalitis.