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Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis associated with ovarian tumor: the gynecologist point of view
Background Anti-NMDA receptor antibody (anti-NMDAr) encephalitis, although still a rare condition, is well known to neurologists as it is the leading cause of non-infectious acute encephalitis in young women. However, this is less well known to gynecologists, who may have a decisive role in etiologi...
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Published in: | Archives of gynecology and obstetrics 2020-08, Vol.302 (2), p.315-320 |
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Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Subjects: | |
Citations: | Items that this one cites Items that cite this one |
Online Access: | Get full text |
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Summary: | Background
Anti-NMDA receptor antibody (anti-NMDAr) encephalitis, although still a rare condition, is well known to neurologists as it is the leading cause of non-infectious acute encephalitis in young women. However, this is less well known to gynecologists, who may have a decisive role in etiological management. Indeed, in 30–60% of cases in women of childbearing age, it is associated with the presence of an ovarian teratoma, whose removal is crucial in the resolution of symptomatology.
Objectives
Primary objective of our work was to present a review in a very schematic and practical way for gynecologists, about the data on anti-NMDAr encephalitis in terms of epidemiology, clinical symptomatology, treatment and prognosis. The second objective was to propose a decision tree for gynecologists to guide them, in collaboration with neurologists and anesthesiologists, after the diagnosis of NMDAr encephalitis associated with an ovarian mass.
Method
We conducted an exhaustive review of existing data using PubMed and The Cochrane Library. Then, we illustrated this topic by presenting two typical cases from our experience.
Results
Anti-NMDA antibody encephalitis association with an ovarian teratoma is common, especially in women of reproductive age. Complementary examinations in search of an ovarian teratoma must therefore be systematic to envisage a possible surgical excision that may improve patient prognosis.
Conclusion
Anti-NMDA antibody encephalitis should not be ignored by gynecologists whose role in management is central. |
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ISSN: | 0932-0067 1432-0711 |
DOI: | 10.1007/s00404-020-05645-9 |