Neuropsychological And Psychopathological Profile Of Anti-Nmdar Encephalitis: A Possible Pathophysiological Model For Pediatric Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Dr Tom Pollak's comment about this research: "Papers focusing on psychiatric phenomenology of NMDAR antibody encephalitis coming thick and fast now - this one on children. Interestingly reports a child with new-onset OCD in the recovery period, something we've seen in adults."
Seven children diagnosed with anti-NMDAR encephalitis a neuropsychological and psychological/behavioral standardized examination within one month after discharge and subsequently were followed up longitudinally for mean 35 months (range 24–48 months). Collected neuropsychological data were evaluated retrospectively.
Results
Deficits in attention, executive functions and/or visual motor functions involving executive functions were seen in all children within one month after discharge. These deficits were long lasting in about a half of the patients. In addition, four patients developed persistent psychopathological dysfunctions: difficulties to regulate their own behavior, impulsivity, hyperactivity, irritability, apathy, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.