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High-throughput Flow Cytometry Cell-based Assay to Detect Antibodies to N-Methyl-D-aspartate Receptor or Dopamine-2 Receptor in Human Serum
Published on: November 23, 2013
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Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Autoimmune Encephalitis: A Case Report
Bikash Yadav1, Dhiraj Chaurasia1, Abhiyan Kharel1
1Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal.
JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|January 27, 2023
Summary
Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA) encephalitis is an under-recognized autoimmune condition. Prompt diagnosis and immunotherapy, including methylprednisolone, significantly improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA) encephalitis is a severe autoimmune neurological disorder.
- It presents with acute neuropsychiatric symptoms but is often underdiagnosed.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with fever, headache, altered sensorium, disorientation, movement abnormalities, and loss of consciousness.
- Initial diagnosis was tuberculous meningoencephalitis, but treatment yielded no cognitive improvement.
Findings:
- The patient's atypical presentation raised suspicion for autoimmune encephalitis.
- NMDA receptor antibody testing confirmed the diagnosis.
- Empirical immunotherapy with methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin led to clinical improvement.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of NMDA receptor encephalitis is crucial.
- Prompt immunotherapy can stabilize cognitive and emotional functions.
- This case highlights the importance of considering autoimmune encephalitis in atypical neurological presentations.
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