Ramin Nilforooshan
Brain Science Research Unit, UK
Title: Aims and Hypothesis: To review the previous case reports on positive anti-NMDAR antibodies that were treated with ECT
Biography
Biography: Ramin Nilforooshan
Abstract
Aims and Hypothesis: To review the previous case reports on positive anti-NMDAR antibodies that were treated with ECT. Background: It is now well accepted that autoimmune encephalitis can present with a combination of neurological and psychiatric symptoms. Currently, the most widely used therapy for these conditions is prompt plasmapheresis and steroid treatment (and tumour resection if indicated), followed by second line immunosuppression if this fails. Cases: We discuss several case reports, which suggest that ECT plays a role in treatment for some types of autoimmune encephalitis, particularly those in which psychiatric symptoms are especially debilitating and refractory to standard treatment. We present a new case of a 71 year old previously healthy female who presented with depression and anxiety after anti-NMDAR antibodies were isolated, she received plasmapheresis and corticosteroid treatment and then she underwent 8 sessions of ECT and returned to her premorbid state. Discussion: We discuss factors predicting good outcome and possible mechanisms behind the use of ECT in autoimmune encephalitis. Conclusions: Although there are still only a small number of case reports supporting the theory that ECT is effective in treating symptoms of autoimmune encephalitis, it is reasonable to suggest that it should be considered as an alternative or adjunct to standard immunosuppressive therapies.