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Published on: January 9, 2018
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 neurological symptoms including seizures, behavioral changes, and memory impairment.
- Renal failure is an uncommon but serious complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of NMDA receptor encephalitis presenting with seizures and renal failure.
- To investigate the association between NMDA receptor antibodies and tubulointerstitial nephritis.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and potential renal manifestations of autoimmune encephalitis.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a young adult male with seizures and acute kidney injury.
- Diagnostic workup including autoimmune antibody testing and renal biopsy.
- Clinical and pathological correlation of findings.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with seizures and renal failure, initially suspected as vasculitis or AKI from other causes.
- NMDA receptor antibodies were detected in the patient's serum.
- Renal biopsy confirmed tubulointerstitial nephritis, indicating a link to the autoimmune encephalitis.
Conclusions:
- This case underscores the association between NMDA receptor antibody-associated encephalitis and renal failure, specifically tubulointerstitial nephritis.
- Early recognition of potential renal involvement in autoimmune encephalitis is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying renal pathology in NMDA receptor encephalitis.
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