Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis and MOG-associated demyelination – a case report with long-term follow-up and a systematic review

Abstract

Background

Overlap syndromes of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis and MOG-mediated demyelination have been reported. In this case we provide a long-term longitudinal follow-up of clinical and imaging characteristics as well as of antibody dynamics.

Case presentation

We report a 32-year-old male patient who presented with psychosis, decreased consciousness and movement disorders and was tested positive for anti-NMDA receptor antibodies. Forty-four months after symptom onset and diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis, he suffered from relapse. At this time, the patient developed anti-MOG and anti-Caspr2 antibodies. Treatment with plasmapheresis, steroids and rituximab eventually led to substantial clinical and radiological improvement. Anti-Caspr2 antibodies persisted, anti-NMDA receptor antibodies decreased, while anti-MOG antibodies turned negative again.

Conclusion

We provide long-term longitudinal follow-up of a patient with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis who developed triple antibody positivity at the time of relapse. Antibody dynamics were associated with clinical disease course.