Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis
Evidence: Antibody
Names
Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
Description
Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the brain’s NMDA receptors. N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptors are proteins that play a significant role in learning and memory.
When the NMDA receptor antibodies attack the NMDA receptors in the brain, certain functions of the brain are disrupted and brain swelling, or encephalitis, occurs. At disease onset, patients often have symptoms consistent with those caused by a virus. Within 3 months of onset, patients develop psychological or neurological problems, including seizures and perceptual and behavioral changes. As the disorder progresses, patients become verbally unresponsive and experience difficulty with movement. With time, problems with regulation of autonomic processes, such as heart rate and breathing, emerge. Some cases of this disease have been associated with tumors, especially of the ovary. In severe cases, complications can result in relapse, chronic cognitive problems, or death. However, if treatment and medical supervision is received, most patients can expect to fully recover.
Patient Groups
Prevalence
US Incidence: Approximately 200 cases per year (1 per 1.5 million people per year) [Samanta 2020]. Females are 4 times more likely to be affected than men.
Typical Age of onset
Possible between 2 months and 85 years of age. Most common in women between 25 and 35 years old [Samanta 2020]
Symptoms
Flu-like symptoms
Sleep disorders
Hallucinations
Depression
Mania Eating disorders (sudden onset)
Anxiety Apathy
Unusual behaviors
Memory problems
Seizures
Verbal unresponsiveness (mutism)
Irregular heartbeat (arrythmia)
Difficulty breathing
Body temperature fluctuation
Blood pressure fluctuation
Loss of Consciousness
Rhythmic motion of arms
Rhythmic motions of legs
Abnormal facial movements
Tremors
Shakes
Feet and hands “fall asleep”
