NMDA receptor encephalitis

Definition

A rare limbic encephalitis characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against NMDA receptors in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. It may be of paraneoplastic (most commonly associated with ovarian teratoma) or non-paraneoplastic origin and is life-threatening but potentially treatable. Patients present with acute behavioral change, psychosis, and catatonia, rapidly progressing to seizures, memory deficit, dyskinesias, speech problems, and autonomic and breathing dysregulation.