Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in an adolescent.

BACKGROUND Anti N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is an immune mediated disorder. CASE CHARACTERISTICS A previously healthy 14-year-old girl presenting with generalized tonic clonic seizures and altered behavior. OBSERVATION In view of refractory seizures, hallucinations, psychobehavioral and catalepsy like symptoms, and CSF showing lymphocytic pleocytosis, possibility of autoimmune encephalitis was considered. Serum was positive for anti-NMDA receptor antibodies. OUTCOME She recovered completely in six months without any sequelae. CONCLUSION Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis - a potentially treatable disease - should be considered in differential diagnosis of encephalitis when acute behavioral changes, seizures or dyskinesias are present.