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anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis

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Disease Overview

An autoimmune acute encephalitis caused by antibodies against the glutamate NMDA receptor. It usually affects females and in the majority of cases it is associated with the presence of a tumor, most commonly an ovarian teratoma. The presence of a tumor in patients with this form of encephalitis implies that the latter is a paraneoplastic syndrome. It is manifested with psychiatric symptoms and epileptic seizures. It is a potentially lethal disorder; however, it is usually reversible with the prompt removal of the tumor.


Synonyms

  • anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
  • limbic encephalitis with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antibodies
  • limbic encephalitis with NMDA receptor antibodies

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.

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