Case report: anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate receptor encephalitis and bilateral temporal calcifications

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Radiology

Background:

• Reports a rare case of anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis in a young female.
• Highlights the diagnostic challenge presented by co-existing neurological and radiological findings.

Observation:

• The patient presented with seizures and was diagnosed with anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
• Routine head CT revealed bilateral temporal calcifications, an unusual finding in this condition.
• The co-existence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis and cerebral calcifications is unprecedented in medical literature.

Findings:

• This case confirms the extreme rarity of concurrent anti-NMDAR encephalitis and cerebral calcifications.
• The patient's symptoms improved with treatment, indicating potential therapeutic targets.
• The study suggests a possible link to an incomplete form of celiac disease, epilepsy, and cerebral calcifications syndrome (CEC).

Implications:

• Further research is needed to understand the relationship between anti-NMDAR encephalitis and cerebral calcifications.
• Investigating associations between anti-NMDAR encephalitis and other autoimmune disorders is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
• This case broadens the understanding of NMDAR encephalitis presentations and potential comorbidities.