Anti-NMDAR encephalitis with ovarian teratomas: Review of the literature and two case reports

Abstract

ObjectiveAnti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with ovarian teratomas. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis patients typically present with prominent psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and involuntary movements; further, they rapidly progress to unresponsiveness with central hypoventilation and dysautonomia. Case reportThis paper presents two anti-NMDAR encephalitis cases with ovarian teratomas and reviews 13 anti-NMDAR encephalitis clinical case reports in Taiwan, of which six involved ovarian tumors, five being mature teratomas. Patients presented with acute onset of psychiatric symptoms and subsequently developed coma within a few days. Anti-NMDAR encephalitis usually occurs in young women and is often associated with ovarian tumors, specifically teratomas. Ovarian cystectomy or oophorectomy was performed, which markedly improved cognitive function. ConclusionParaneoplastic neurological conditions associated with ovarian teratomas represent a fascinating disease process. Identifying the gynecological cause of a neurological condition, particularly in young women, followed by prompt treatment can remarkably improve clinical conditions and, thus, be lifesaving.