Long-term effects of anti-

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis (NMDARE) typically presents with favorable neurological recovery.
• However, persistent non-motor sequelae and reduced quality of life (QOL) are common long-term challenges for NMDARE survivors.
• Caregiver burden associated with NMDARE is significant, yet long-term patient outcomes remain understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the long-term effects of NMDARE on patients' quality of life (QOL).
• To assess the prevalence of persistent sequelae and their impact on daily functioning and QOL in NMDARE survivors.

Main Methods:

• A structured, self-reported questionnaire was administered to adult members of the Japanese Anti-NMDARE Patients' Association.
• The NeuroQOL battery was utilized to evaluate QOL across physical, mental, and social domains.
• NeuroQOL scores were converted to T-scores for comparison with normative control data.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two NMDARE patients completed the study, with a median follow-up of 78 months post-onset.
• 46% reported persistent sequelae, and only 73% resumed prior work/school activities.
• While global QOL was comparable to controls, NMDARE patients exhibited significantly lower social QOL, which correlated with more frequent sequelae.

Conclusions:

• NMDARE survivors experience significantly impaired social QOL compared to the general population.
• Persistent sequelae negatively impact overall QOL in NMDARE patients.
• Early treatment strategies focused on minimizing acute-phase sequelae are crucial for improving long-term QOL in NMDARE.