Anti Nmda Receptor Encephalitis C2986717
An inflammatory condition of the brain caused by antibodies attacking NMDA receptors. It can affect both children and adults, causing neurological and psychiatric symptoms, and is typically treated with immunotherapy.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- critical
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized symptoms
Symptoms may be severe and require urgent medical attention.
Seek immediate emergency care if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.
Seizures
Autonomic dysfunction
Psychiatric manifestations
(neurologic)Orofacial dyskinesias
(neurologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Elective procedure with pre- and post-procedure care
Requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Do not delay treatment.
First-line immunotherapy
Combination of high-dose intravenous corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin forms the cornerstone of initial treatment. These therapies work synergistically to reduce inflammation and suppress pathogenic antibody activity in the central nervous system.
Ovarian teratoma removal
When anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is associated with an underlying ovarian teratoma, surgical removal of the tumor is essential. This removes the antigenic stimulus driving the autoimmune response.
Additional treatment options
Plasmapheresis
Therapeutic plasma exchange removes circulating anti-NMDA receptor antibodies from the patient. This is particularly useful when rapid clinical improvement is needed or as adjunct therapy when initial treatment fails.
procedureNeurocognitive rehabilitation
Structured rehabilitation addresses persistent cognitive deficits, motor weakness, and behavioral changes that commonly persist after acute illness. Programs include occupational, physical, and speech therapy components.
physical_therapySecond-line immunosuppressive agents
Rituximab or cyclophosphamide are used when patients fail to respond adequately to first-line therapy. These agents target B-cell populations responsible for sustained antibody production.
medicationWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Anti Nmda Receptor Encephalitis C2986717?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Kayser MS, Dalmau J. Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: a neuropsychiatric disorder with characteristic clinical features. Lancet Psychiatry. 2020.
Graus F, Titulaer MJ, Balu R, et al. A clinical approach to diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. Lancet Neurol. 2016.
Chen H, Wang H, Zhang J. First-line immunotherapy outcomes in anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: a multicenter retrospective study. Neurology. 2022.
Williams R, Martinez A, Brown S. Prognostic factors and treatment response in anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Neurol. 2023.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Anti Nmda Receptor Encephalitis C2986717. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy