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NMDA Receptor-Associated Encephalitis and Renal Failure - A Unique Association
Komal Bohra1, Rukmini Mridula2, Sruthi Kola2
1Department of Neurology, Srikara Hospitals, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Neurology India
|July 21, 2026
Summary
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis can cause kidney failure. This case highlights the rare association between NMDA receptor encephalitis and tubulointerstitial nephritis in a young adult male.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Nephrology
- Immunology
Background:
- N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a common autoimmune encephalitis in young adults.
- It presents with diverse neurological symptoms including seizures, behavioral changes, autonomic dysfunction, and memory impairment.
- Renal failure is an uncommon but serious complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of NMDA receptor antibody-associated encephalitis presenting with renal failure.
- To investigate the underlying cause of renal impairment in this context.
- To highlight the association between NMDA receptor encephalitis and tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case presentation of a young adult male.
- Diagnostic workup including neurological examination, antibody testing, and renal biopsy.
- Differential diagnosis considerations for seizures and acute kidney injury.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with seizures and renal failure, initially suspected to be due to vasculitis or other causes of acute kidney injury (AKI).
- NMDA receptor antibodies were detected in the patient's serum.
- Renal biopsy confirmed tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Conclusions:
- This case underscores a rare association between NMDA receptor antibody-associated encephalitis and renal failure.
- Tubulointerstitial nephritis can be a manifestation of NMDA receptor encephalitis.
- Early recognition and investigation are crucial for patients presenting with both neurological and renal symptoms.
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