Teenager with acute psychosis due to non-paraneoplastic anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis with a successful recovery: A case report

Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2022 Sep 28:82:104790. doi: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104790. eCollection 2022 Oct.

Abstract

Introduction: Anti NMDAR encephalitis is a neuropsychiatric syndromic disease caused by an immunological response. Acute behavioral changes, psychosis, and catatonia are common clinical manifestations, are seizures, amnesia, speech difficulties, dyskinesia, and autonomic dysregulation.

Case presentation: We discuss the case of a 14-year-old girl who had psychotic symptoms and tested positive for anti-NMDAR antibodies.

Discussion: Patients present with psychiatric symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, agitation, changes in speech mania, disorganized thinking, catatonia, insomnia, and often seizures. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis should be suspected in teenage patient with acute psychotic symptoms and seizure episodes. A multidisciplinary treatment strategy is required.

Conclusion: The delayed treatment can lead to complications and delayed recovery complicating the disease process so multidisciplinary approach of treatment is necessary.

Keywords: Anti NMDA receptor Encephalitis; Anti NMDAR encephalitis; Autoimmune encephalitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports