Did You Know!
Your Own Immune System Can Mistakenly Attack Your Brain
A rare condition called anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis occurs when the immune system produces antibodies that interfere with important receptors in the brain.
It can initially resemble a psychiatric illness, causing sudden behavioral changes, hallucinations, confusion, or unusual movements.
Some patients develop seizures, memory problems, and difficulty speaking.
The remarkable part is that the illness is sometimes associated with tumors, particularly ovarian teratomas, although many patients have no detectable tumor.
With appropriate treatment, many people experience substantial recovery.
