LGI1-antibody encephalitis: how to approach this highly treatable dementia mimic in memory and mental health services

Br J Psychiatry. 2024 Jun;224(6):252-257. doi: 10.1192/bjp.2024.72.

Abstract

Leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1-antibody-encephalitis is a treatable and potentially reversible cause of cognitive and psychiatric presentations, and may mimic cognitive decline, rapidly progressive dementia and complex psychosis in older patients. This aetiology is of immediate relevance given the alternative treatment pathway required, compared with other conditions presenting with cognitive deficits.

Keywords: Dementia; leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1; neuroimmunology; older adults; psychosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Autoantibodies* / blood
  • Dementia* / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Encephalitis / diagnosis
  • Encephalitis / immunology
  • Encephalitis / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Male
  • Mental Health Services

Substances

  • LGI1 protein, human
  • Autoantibodies
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins