Anti-leucine-rich-glioma-inactivated 1 Limbic Encephalitis: An Underrecognised Disease

Autoimmune limbic encephalitis is a rare autoimmune disease characterised by inflammation of the limbic system of the brain. The disease runs a sub-acute course with cognitive impairment, memory loss and seizures. These patients have been underdiag-nosed in Pakistan. Here, we present a case of a middle-aged male, who presented to our Department after having multiple visits to different psychiatrists for his symptoms. The patient had been put on multiple psychiatric and antiepileptic medica-tions, but his condition gradually declined. At our Department, he was thoroughly assessed and then diagnosed as limbic encephalitis on the basis of the typical history, positive anti-leucine-rich-glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1) antibodies and MRI findings. The patient responded to plasmapheresis and immune modulating therapy and is being followed up. Emphasis is made on early diagnosis; and earlier treatment of such cases, as it holds a substantial importance in management and makes a difference in future outcome.

Automated summary

Autoimmune limbic encephalitis is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the limbic system of the brain, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and seizures. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes and prognosis in patients with this condition.