NMDAR (N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor) encephalitis in a patient with MS (multiple sclerosis): a rare and challenging case. (17th February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Suleman, Sadia; Javed, Qaiser
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2018
• Publication Date: 2018-02-17
• Subjects: psychotic disorders (incl schizophrenia) -- delirium -- multiple sclerosis -- memory disorders -- infection (neurology); Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2017-222086
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : We present a rare case of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis in a 41-year-old Caucasian woman, who initially presented with prominent neuropsychiatric symptoms on the background of pre-existing multiple sclerosis. Here, the authors navigate the muddy water between neurology and psychiatry, describing the caveats of antibody testing with a misdiagnosed case of acute and transient psychotic episode. NMDAR encephalitis in MS is a rare condition, which can be easily confused with a new onset psychotic episode. This case report can be helpful in recognition and diagnosis of this rare condition. Making the right diagnosis is important since it can prevent an unnecessary radical treatment and long-term neuropsychiatric complications.