A case of Anti-NMDAR (N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor) Encephalitis: A rehabilitation perspective

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Tham, Shuen-Loong^{; *} | Kong, Keng-He

Affiliations: Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Shuen-Loong Tham, 17 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9, 569766, Singapore. Tel.: +65 64506164; Fax: +65 64590414; E-mail: thamshuenloong@gmail.com

Abstract: Anti-NMDAR (N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor) Encephalitis is a rare occurring autoimmune disease that is mediated by antibodies against the NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor. While this condition has a known predilection for young females with ovarian tumors, heightened awareness has led to increasing recognition of this condition in other population groups as well. Afflicted patients typically evolve through a multi-staged course of neurological, behavioral, cognitive and physical deficits. The diverse nature of this condition often necessitates a multi-disciplinary team for management. As the recovery of patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis is often protracted, the role of the rehabilitation is important particularly beyond its acute stages. We describe a case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis in a 17-year-old girl who presented to our rehabilitation centre for management in the gradual recovery phase of her condition. This case illustrates the multiple challenges faced in the rehabilitation of such a patient.

Keywords: Anti-NMDAR encephalitis, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor, autoimmune, paraneoplastic, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2012-0733

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 30, no. 2, pp. 109-112, 2012