FLAIR-hyperintense lesions in anti-MOG-associated encephalitis with seizures overlaying anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis: A case report

Medicine (Baltimore). 2023 Nov 10;102(45):e35948. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035948.

Abstract

Rationale: FLAIR-hyperintense lesions in anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-associated encephalitis with seizures (FLAMES) is a rare clinical phenotype of anti-MOG; immunoglobulin G-associated disease is often misdiagnosed as viral encephalitis in the early stages. Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune encephalitis caused by antibodies targeting the GluN1 subunit of the NMDAR. The coexistence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis and FLAMES is very rare.

Patient concerns: A 20-year-old female patient initially presented with seizures accompanied by daytime sleepiness.

Diagnoses: Magnetic resonance imaging revealed FLAIR-hyperintense lesions in unilateral cerebral cortex. NMDAR antibodies was positive in the cerebrospinal fluid and MOG antibodies in the serum.

Interventions: Steroid therapy was administrated.

Outcomes: The symptoms completely relieved. At 6-month follow-up, the patient's condition remained stable. Magnetic resonance imaging showed no abnormalities in the unilateral cerebral cortex.

Conclusion: When a patient with anti-NMDAR encephalitis or FLAMES is encountered in clinical practice, the coexistence of these diseases with double-positive anti-NMDAR and MOG antibodies should be considered and adopt appropriate evaluation and treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis* / complications
  • Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis* / diagnosis
  • Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis* / drug therapy
  • Autoantibodies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
  • Seizures / complications
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein