A narrative review of pharmacologic approaches to symptom management of pediatric patients diagnosed with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Vova, Joshua A.^{; *}

Affiliations: Department of Physiatry, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Johnson Ferry Rd NE. Atlanta, GA, USA

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Department of Physiatry, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 1001 Johnson Ferry Rd NE. Atlanta, GA 30342, USA. Tel.: +1 404 7853809; E-mail: Joshua.Vova@CHOA.org.

Abstract: Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis (ANMDARE) is one of the most common autoimmune encephalitis in the pediatric population. Patients with ANMDARE initially present with a prodrome of neuropsychiatric symptoms followed by progressively worsening seizures, agitation, and movement disorders. Complications can include problems such as aggression, insomnia, catatonia, and autonomic instability. Due to the complexity of this disease process, symptom management can be complex and may lead to significant polypharmacy. The goal of this review is to educate clinicians about the challenges of managing this disorder and providing guidance in symptom management.

Keywords: Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, ANMDARE, pharmacology, treatment, behavior

DOI: 10.3233/PRM-200677

Journal: Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 333-343, 2021