What is Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

a paraneoplastic syndrome, presenting as prominent psychiatric features

What is shown on MRI in Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

MRI head can be normal but abnormalities can be visualised on FLAIR sequences in the deep subcortical limbic structures

What are the main clinical features of Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

• agitation
• hallucinations
• delusions and disordered thinking
• seizures
• insomnia
• dyskinesias
• autonomic instability

What is the management of Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

• Immunosuppression with intravenous steroids, immunoglobulins, rituximab, cyclophosphamide or plasma exchange, alone or in combination
• Resection of teratoma is also therapeutic

What are the main causes of Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

Ovarian teratomas are detected in up to half of all female adult patients, particularly prevalent in Afro-Caribbean patients

What is shown on CSF in Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?

CSF may demonstrate pleocytosis but can be normal initially