CASPR2 positive autoimmune encephalitis presenting as delirium in an alcohol dependent patient: a diagnostic dilemma

Abstract

Delirium, a major psychiatric emergency commonly encountered in alcohol withdrawal state, can have various aetiologies. Here we present a case of protracted delirium in an alcohol dependent patient, which on detailed neurological workup was diagnosed to be autoimmune encephalitis with CASPR2 (contactin-associated protein-like 2) antibodies. Subsequent treatment with immunotherapy and steroids lead to the resolution of symptoms.

Keywords

• delirium
• autoimmune encephalitis
• alcohol withdrawal
• caspr2