Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Encephalitis in Illicit Substance Use

Abstract

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a neuroinflammatory disease mediated by autoantibodies against the NMDAR, typically presenting with psychiatric symptoms, cognitive dysfunction, and motor dysfunction. These neuropsychiatric symptoms may be mimicked by drug abuse, and the development of anti-NMDAR encephalitis may be triggered by certain substance use. Here we report a case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis who developed neuropsychiatric symptoms after illicit substance use, the first report in Korea.