GAD65 antibody-associated autoimmune epilepsy with unique independent bitemporal-onset ictal asystole

Abstract

Antibodies against the 65-kDa isoform of the intracellular enzyme, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD65), have been found in patients with limbic encephalitis and drug-resistant autoimmune epilepsy. We report a 22-year-old female who presented with new-onset seizures and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Video-EEG captured unique, independent bitemporal-onset focal seizures with impaired awareness and ictal asystole. An autoimmune epilepsy panel revealed elevated GAD65 antibodies in the serum (225 nmol/l) and CSF (2.78 nmol/l), while [18F]-fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography showed bitemporal hypometabolism (left > right). The patient was diagnosed with GAD65 antibody-associated autoimmune epilepsy. Our observation adds to the spectrum of neurocardiac syndromes associated with autoimmune epilepsy.