Paraneoplastic anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in a Nigerian female teenager: A case report.

Abstract

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is characterized by neuropsychiatric
symptoms, seizures, dysautonomia, and movement disorders. Initially identified as a paraneoplastic
syndrome predominantly in young women with ovarian teratomas, it has become clear that not all
affected individuals have tumors, and symptoms can occur across genders. With the availability of the
NMDAR antibody assay, cases have also been identified in patients presenting with early psychosis,
epilepsy, and classic limbic encephalitis. This emerging understanding enables earlier diagnosis, even in
resource-limited settings, facilitating a multidisciplinary management approach that combines
immunotherapies and tumor removal when indicated. This case highlights the importance of recognizing
anti-NMDAR encephalitis in an 18-year-old female, emphasizing the need for prompt intervention to
improve recovery outcomes.