Childhood Onset of Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis Without Teratoma Masquerading as a Psychotic Disorder

ABSTRACT

Many neurologic disorders manifest as psychiatric symptoms. Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is an autoimmune disease of the brain characterized by numerous neurological and psychiatric features. Despite being rare, its prevalence is rapidly increasing and early management is critical in ensuring successful and sustainable recovery. Therefore, the illness should be considered as a differential diagnosis when clinically assessing patients. This report presents a case of a female child who was hospitalized for acute psychiatric manifestations, which was later confirmed as anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. She recovered relatively successfully after combined neurological and psychiatric treatment. This report provides information on the clinical course of early onset anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, including treatment strategy and prognosis.