Myoclonic status epilepticus as a presentation of caspr2 antibody-associated autoimmune encephalitis

Sudarshini Ramanathan, Chong H. Wong, Zebunnessa Rahman, Russell C. Dale, David Fulcher, Andrew F. Bleasel*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/debatepeer-review

12 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We present a case of autoimmune encephalitis associated with antibodies targeting contactin-associated protein-like 2. This case is notable because of the presentation withmyoclonic status epilepticus and the prolonged clinical course of refractory seizures, which are demonstrated in the accompanying videos, and not previously associated with this condition. Treatment with prednisone, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate mofetil resulted in significant functional improvement. Historically, myoclonic status epilepticus is associated with a grave prognosis and minimal chance of meaningful recovery. This case demonstrates that autoimmune encephalitis remains an important differential diagnosis in patients with such a presentation, and that early recognition and the appropriate institution of immunotherapy can result in seizure control and functional recovery.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)477-481
Number of pages5
JournalEpileptic Disorders
Volume16
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2014
Externally publishedYes

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