Autoimmune encephalitis associatedwith anti-NMDA receptor antibodies andovarian teratoma

Abstract

We report the case of a young woman with autoimmune encephalitis mediated by antibodies against the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, associated with an ovarian teratoma. A 25-year-old patient presented with acute psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and impaired level of consciousness. Neuroimaging studies revealed bilateral temporal hyperintensities, cerebrospinal fluid analysis was positive for anti-NMDA receptor antibodies, and gynecological evaluation identified an ovarian teratoma. Immunomodulatory therapy was initiated, and surgical resection of the tumor was performed, resulting in favorable clinical evolution. Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis should be considered in young women presenting with subacute neuropsychiatric symptoms. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are crucial determinants of good prognosis.