Anti-NMDAR encephalitis, a mimicker of acute infectious encephalitis and a review of the literature

Abstract

Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis has become an increasingly recognized etiology of acute psychosis in young patients. The diverse constellation of symptoms allows for misdiagnosis as an infectious, psychological, or toxicological entity resulting in delays in treatment with increasing morbidity. We describe a case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis that was a particular challenge to diagnose. Practitioners should maintain a high index of suspicion for anti-NMDAR and related neuroautoimmune syndromes, especially in young patients that present with acute mental status decline or dyskinesia.

Keywords

• Anti-NMDAR antibody
• NMDAR encephalitis
• Encephalitis
• Ovarian teratoma