Cognitive Impairments Preceding and Outlasting Autoimmune Limbic Encephalitis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Neuropsychology

Background:

• Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can be an early sign of autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE).
• ALE diagnosis can be challenging due to diverse clinical presentations.
• ALE often presents with memory issues, personality changes, agitation, insomnia, consciousness alterations, and seizures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two cases of MCI diagnosed with ALE.
• To highlight persistent cognitive deficits after ALE treatment.
• To review the literature on ALE and MCI.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients with MCI.
• Diagnosis of ALE with antibodies against the voltage-gated potassium channel complex.
• Neuropsychological testing post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Both patients diagnosed with ALE.
• Persistent cognitive deficits observed in memory and executive functions post-ALE resolution.
• Case 1 showed memory deficits; Case 2 showed executive function deficits.

Conclusions:

• MCI can be a presenting symptom of ALE.
• ALE requires prompt diagnosis and immune-based treatment.
• Long-term cognitive deficits may persist despite successful ALE treatment.