Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: An emerging differential diagnosis in the psychiatric community

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a new diagnosis, as recent as 2007, that develops as a result of autoantibodies to the NMDA receptor. The clinical manifestations of the disorder include complex psychiatric symptoms, seizures, movement disorders, cognitive dysfunction, and autonomic instability. Tumor resection, if present, and immunotherapy are the mainstays of therapy. Treatment should be initiated early and aggressively as it has been associated with better patient outcomes. A significant proportion of patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis initially seek the help of a psychiatrist, highlighting the importance of its recognition within the mental health community. In an effort to promote disease awareness, this article will review a patient case and the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis.