N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antibodies encephalitis mimicking an autistic regression.

Abstract

Expressive dysphasia and mutism are common clinical features in children and adults with N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antibodies (NMDAR-Ab) encephalitis, and are likely to result from NMDAR hypofunction. A prodromal loss of social and communication skills can typify that of an autistic regression, particularly when presenting under the age of 3 years. Here we describe two toddlers who presented with developmental regression, particularly of their social communication skills, mimicking an autistic regression, who were found to have NMDAR-Ab in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Although both patients had some other neurological features, they were subtle, which resulted in delayed diagnosis of NMDAR-Ab encephalitis. Importantly, immunotherapy was beneficial in both patients, with significant improvement of their language skills and behaviour.

• Authors: Yael Hacohen, Sukhvir Wright, Jonathan Gadian, Angela Vincent, Ming Lim, Evangeline Wassmer, Jean-Pierre Lin
• Journal: Developmental medicine and child neurology (Dev Med Child Neurol) Vol. 58 Issue 10 Pg. 1092-4 (10 2016) ISSN: 1469-8749 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 27255282 (Publication Type: Case Reports)
• Copyright: © 2016 Mac Keith Press.

Topics

• Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis (complications, diagnosis)
• Autistic Disorder (complications, diagnosis)
• Child, Preschool
• Communication Disorders (diagnosis, etiology)
• Delayed Diagnosis
• Female
• Humans
• Male