Paediatric anti-GABAB receptor encephalitis associated with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection

Abstract

Though we are approaching the end of second wave of COVID pandemic, we are still unrevealing the various presentation this viral infection can result in. There are few cases reported to have anti NMDA autoimmune encephalitis associated with COVID-19 infection or MIS-C. Here we are reporting one of its variants that was anti-GABAB receptor encephalitis associated with COVID-19 infection. We are reporting a 9 years old female child who was a known case of seizure disorder and on regular medications presented on 4th day of RT-PCR positive status for COVID-19 with complains of convulsions which was managed with antiepileptics. On day 6 of hospitalization she had autonomic instability in the form of tachyarrhythmia, repitation of speech, sudden outburst of laughter and on day 7 child landed in status epilepticus. Autoimmune encephalitis suspected secondary to COVID-19 infection and the child was started on IVIG but not much of improvement seen with this. CSF analysis showed weakly positive anti GABAB antibodies and child had persistently elevated inflammatory markers hence started on high dose corticosteroid. MIS-C ruled out. Child showed drastic improvement both clinical and biochemical after high dose corticosteroids. Prompt treatment with IVIG/corticosteroids have shown a drastic improvement in our child just like in any other autoimmune encephalitis. Though further detailed study is required to prove its exact mechanism in COVID-19 infection, it should be thought of when appropriate and prompt early initiation of therapy will help us reduce morbidity and mortality associated with it.