Pediatric NMDA Receptor Encephalitis: A Case of Speech Regression and Behavioral Changes

Anti-N-methyl-D-asparate receptor (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a rare autoimmune disorder (estimated prevalence is 1-2 in a million) characterized by the production of antibodies against the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in the brain. It often presents with a variety of neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including seizures, speech impairment, and behavioral changes. The disease can be challenging to diagnose due to its variable presentations, rarity, and lack of clear diagnostic signs on neuroimaging.