Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
Rare disease which results in brain inflammation
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Interest in “Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis” spiked on Wikipedia on 2026-07-21.
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Key Takeaways
- Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is a type of brain inflammation caused by antibodies.
- This is then typically followed by psychosis which presents with false beliefs (delusions) and seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear (hallucinations).
- Over time, seizures, decreased breathing, and blood pressure and heart rate variability typically occur.
- About half of the cases are associated with tumors, most commonly teratomas of the ovaries.
- The underlying mechanism is autoimmune, with the primary target being the GluN1 subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in the brain.
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Source summary
WikipediaAnti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is a type of brain inflammation caused by antibodies. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, and feeling tired. This is then typically followed by psychosis which presents with false beliefs (delusions) and seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear (hallucinations). People are also often agitated or confused. Over time, seizures, decreased breathing, and blood pressure and heart rate variability typically occur. In some cases, patients may develop catatonia.
About half of the cases are associated with tumors, most commonly teratomas of the ovaries. Another established trigger is herpesviral encephalitis which is associated with over half of all identified pediatric cases, while the cause in other cases is unclear. The underlying mechanism is autoimmune, with the primary target being the GluN1 subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in the brain. Diagnosis is typically based on finding specific antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid. MRI of the brain is often normal. Misdiagnosis is common.
Treatment is typically with immunosuppressive medication and, if a tumor is present, surgery to remove it. With treatment, about 80% of cases have a good outcome. Outcomes are better if treatment is begun earlier. Long-term mental or behavioral problems may remain. About 4% of those affected die from the condition. Recurrence occurs in about 10% of people.
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