Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis

An autoimmune encephalitis in which antibodies target NMDA receptors, disrupting brain signaling. It often causes psychiatric symptoms, seizures, movement disorders, and impaired consciousness.

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NMDA receptor: A glutamate receptor that supports synaptic signaling and plasticity, especially in learning and memory. The autoantibodies target this receptor and reduce its availability at neuronal synapses.
Graus criteria for autoimmune encephalitis: Clinical criteria for identifying possible, probable, and definite autoimmune encephalitis. They provide a framework for evaluating suspected cases before antibody results are available.
Psychosis: A mental state involving impaired reality testing, which may include delusions or hallucinations. Psychosis can be an early presentation and may precede obvious neurological signs.
Herpes simplex encephalitis: Brain inflammation caused by herpes simplex virus, commonly affecting the temporal lobes. It can resemble autoimmune encephalitis and must be considered during acute evaluation.
Encephalitis: Inflammation of brain tissue caused by infection, autoimmunity, or other processes. This disorder is one autoimmune form of encephalitis.
Autoantibody: An antibody that mistakenly recognizes and binds molecules produced by the body itself. The disease is driven by antibodies directed against a normal neuronal receptor.
Electroencephalography: A method for recording electrical activity from the brain through scalp electrodes. EEG can reveal abnormal brain activity during seizures or altered consciousness.
Seizure: A transient episode of abnormal excessive or synchronized neuronal activity in the brain. Seizures commonly emerge as the illness progresses beyond behavioral changes.
Viral encephalitis: Inflammation of brain tissue caused by viral infection. Infectious encephalitis is a major alternative explanation for acute brain inflammation.
Intensive care medicine: Medical care for life-threatening illness requiring continuous monitoring and organ support. Autonomic instability and impaired consciousness can make intensive care necessary.