Hashimoto's encephalopathy (HE) is a rare, clinically heterogeneous condition associated with positive thyroid
autoantibodies. It is increasingly recognized as an important and treatable cause of autoimmune
encephalopathy. Thyroid-associated
antibodies such as thyroperoxidase (TPO) antibody,
thyroglobulin (TG) antibody, and
thyrotropin receptor (TR) antibody were found in HE patients with
seizure disorders. Although antithyroid
antibodies are required for the diagnosis of HE, their role in the pathogenesis of HE remains uncertain. Instead of playing a key role in the pathophysiology processes of HE, it is suggested that thyroid-associated
antibodies are hallmarks of HE.
Seizure disorders were found in approximately two-thirds of HE patients, and common
anticonvulsant therapy alone is usually ineffective. Some patients did not respond to any
antiepileptic drugs. The use of
immunotherapy can effectively control
seizure disorders. Electroencephalography and imaging findings are not specific to HE patients and can also be seen in other causes of
encephalopathies. However, the prognosis in the majority of patients with HE was usually good if it is diagnosed and treated correctly.