Anti-NMDAR encephalitis in Southeast Asia - A single-centre, longitudinal study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology

Background:

• Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis (ANMDARE) is a severe autoimmune neurological disorder.
• Understanding its clinical spectrum in diverse populations like Southeast Asians is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To delineate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of ANMDARE in Southeast Asian (SEA) patients.
• To identify potential demographic or clinical differences within this population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 20 SEA patients diagnosed with ANMDARE.
• Data collected included clinical presentations, demographics, associated neoplasms, and 1-year outcomes.

Main Results:

• Delirium and seizures were the most common presenting symptoms.
• Females had a higher incidence of movement disorders and underlying neoplasms (teratomas, neuroendocrine tumors).
• While dysautonomia prolonged ICU stays, 1-year outcomes were favorable for most patients (mRS 0-2).

Conclusions:

• SEA patients with ANMDARE commonly present with delirium and seizures.
• Recognizing gender-specific differences in clinical characteristics and associated neoplasms can aid early diagnosis and treatment.
• Prompt management strategies are essential for improving outcomes in SEA patients with ANMDARE.