Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis Presenting as Acute Psychosis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is an autoimmune disorder.
• It often presents with neuropsychiatric symptoms and neurological deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of considering anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in young adults with specific symptom clusters.
• To emphasize the need for early diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Case review of young adults with acute psychiatric symptoms, neurological decline, catatonia, and autonomic instability.
• Diagnostic workup including neurological examination and potentially antibody testing.
• Treatment with immunotherapy.

Main Results:

• Patients presenting with this constellation of symptoms may have anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis.
• Absence of detectable tumors does not exclude the diagnosis.
• Prompt immunotherapy led to favorable neurological recovery in identified cases.

Conclusions:

• Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis should be suspected in young adults with acute psychiatric symptoms and rapid neurological deterioration.
• Early immunotherapy is critical for achieving good neurological outcomes.
• The diagnosis is important even in the absence of associated tumors.