Anti-LGI1 Limbic Encephalitis—Case Report

Limbic encephalitis is characterized by acute or subacute changes in mood and behaviour, by recent memory changes, seizures and cognitive dysfunction. In this article, the authors present a case report of a 53-year-old woman that resorted to consultation with clinical presentation suggestive of major depressive episode. However, the worsening of symptoms despite treatment and the testimony of seizures put on the trail of another diagnosis. She was admitted in Neurology Service of home area hospital, where she was diagnosed with Autoimmune Limbic Encephalitis (AntiLGI1 positive). Currently, the patient keeps mensal immunotherapy and daily treatment with levetiracetam and valproic acid, without new seizures. However, she maintains memory and behavioural changes which interfere substantially with her daily functioning. The Family Physician had an essential role not only in the diagnosis of Limbic Encephalitis, but also in helping the patient, through holistic and longitudinal care, to accept and adapt to her illness and related limitations, relieving the suffering.