Multifocal Stroke Complicating Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis

Abstract

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis (NMDARE) is an autoimmune form of encephalitis, first described in 2005 and now recognized as among the more common causes of encephalitis. While NMDARE can result in permanent neurologic deficits or even mortality, the prognosis in children is generally more favorable; 75-85% of children and teenagers achieve a full or substantial recovery. We describe here a preadolescent female, whose course of NMDARE was complicated by a unilateral stroke, resulting in permanent deficits. The imaging characteristics suggest a vascular (thrombotic) etiology. To our knowledge, this is the first report of stroke in the setting of NMDARE.