[Anti-NMDAR encephalitis associated with relapsing optic neuritis]

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Neurology

Background:

• Autoimmune encephalitis with antibodies to NMDA receptors (anti-NMDAR encephalitis) is the most common autoimmune encephalitis.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes, as delays can lead to severe disability or death.
• Diagnostic challenges arise from varied clinical presentations, potential overlap with other autoimmune conditions, and limited physician awareness.

Observation:

• This report details a case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis presenting with recurrent optic neuritis.
• The optic neuritis was not attributable to co-existing multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.
• This presentation suggests optic neuritis may be an atypical manifestation of anti-NMDAR encephalitis.

Findings:

• The association of recurrent optic neuritis with anti-NMDAR encephalitis is described.
• This case expands the spectrum of clinical manifestations recognized in anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
• The findings underscore the importance of considering anti-NMDAR encephalitis even with seemingly unrelated neurological symptoms.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of atypical presentations like optic neuritis can improve early diagnosis of anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
• Timely diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent long-term neurological sequelae.
• Further research may elucidate the mechanisms underlying optic nerve involvement in anti-NMDAR encephalitis.