AI-CoV Study: Autoimmune Encephalitis Associated With COVID-19 and Its Vaccines-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) following COVID-19 is an emerging neurological condition.
• Understanding the clinico-investigational and pathophysiologic aspects is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• Systematically review AIE associated with COVID-19 and its vaccines.
• Identify factors predicting neurological severity and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search conducted on January 15, 2022.
• Included studies with temporal association between AIE and COVID-19 or its vaccines.

Main Results:

• 88 cases analyzed: 71 COVID-19-associated AIE, 14 vaccine-associated AIE.
• Anti-NMDAR encephalitis most common definite AIE; males more affected.
• Neurological symptoms include altered mental state, movement disorders, seizures; median latency 14 days.
• Female sex and ICU admission linked to higher sequelae risk.
• Good immunotherapy response observed in most cases; higher sequelae in vaccine-associated AIE.

Conclusions:

• Study elucidates diagnostic, therapeutic, and pathophysiological aspects of COVID-19 and vaccine-associated AIE.
• Highlights differences from post-infectious AIE.
• Provides insights into neurological complications and outcomes.