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Two different presentations, one diagnosis
Gavin McCluskey1, Chandni K Rajani2, Gareth Lewis3
1FY1, Altnagelvin Area Hospital.
Insights
Anti-voltage gated potassium channel (VGKC) antibody limbic encephalitis can present with confusion and seizures. Early immunotherapy significantly improves patient outcomes in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Acute confusion and hyponatremia are frequent presentations in acute medical settings.
- Autoimmune encephalitis, particularly anti-VGKC antibody-related limbic encephalitis, presents a diagnostic challenge due to variable clinical manifestations.
Observation:
- Two cases of anti-VGKC antibody-related limbic encephalitis are presented, showcasing diverse clinical presentations.
- Standard investigations including MRI, lumbar puncture, EEG, and autoimmune/infectious screens were performed.
Findings:
- Both patients tested positive for anti-VGKC antibodies.
- Prompt immunotherapy led to significant clinical recovery in both cases.
Implications:
- Patients with unexplained confusion and seizures warrant expedited autoimmune encephalitis investigation.
- Atypical psychiatric presentations, such as drowsiness, should also prompt consideration of autoimmune causes.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with immunotherapy or steroids improve outcomes for anti-VGKC antibody-related limbic encephalitis.
Abstract:
Acute confusion and hyponatraemia are common presentations in acute medicine. We report two cases of anti-voltage gated potassium channel (VGKC) antibody-related limbic encephalitis highlighting the variable presentation of this condition. Both patients were thoroughly investigated with MRI scan of brain, lumbar puncture, EEG as well as infective and autoimmune screens for encephalitis. Anti-VGKC antibodies were positive for both patients and prompt treatment with immunotherapy yielded good recovery. Patients presenting with confusion and seizures who have no demonstrable infectious or metabolic cause should have investigation for an autoimmune cause expedited. In addition, psychiatric presentations with atypical features such as drowsiness should prompt similar investigations. The outcome of anti-VGKCrelated limbic encephalitis is improved with early treatment employing steroids or immunotherapy.
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