Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis (Q84152)

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis results from a targeted attack on the central nervous system that in many cases occurs as a consequence of a tumour immune response initiated by onco-neural antigens derived from a cancer (teratoma). It most often affects young women who present initially with psychiatric features which then progress to limbic encephalitis with accompanying seizures, movement disorders and hypoventilation. Anti-NMDA-receptor antibodies best detected in cerebrospinal fluid are required for the diagnosis and are frequently accompanied by an underlying teratoma (usually ovarian). Despite the severe initial presentation with supportive management, treatment of tumour and immunotherapy good neurological recovery is frequently achievable.