Timely Laparoscopic Intervention for Ovarian Tumor-related Autoimmune Encephalitis: A Challenging Pathology at Tu Du Hospital in Vietnam and Literature Review

Gynecol Minim Invasive Ther. 2023 Aug 10;12(3):185-188. doi: 10.4103/gmit.gmit_36_23. eCollection 2023 Jul-Sep.

Abstract

A previously fit and healthy 39-year-old woman was admitted to our tertiary referral hospital with coexisting autoimmune encephalopathy and ovarian tumor. Due to the presence of anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) in the cerebrospinal fluid, a diagnosis of anti-NMDAR encephalitis was first suggested after ruling out other etiologies. Thus, a laparoscopy was promptly performed to remove the ovarian tumor. The histological endpoint revealed an ovarian teratoma. Consequently, the patient recovered completely in good health condition after 2 months in a coma status. Herein, we report an uncommon case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis associated with ovarian teratoma at our hospital, thus raising awareness of physicians.

Keywords: Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis; autoimmune disease; laparoscopy; mortality; ovarian teratoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports