Treatment of γ-aminobutyric acidB receptor-antibody autoimmune encephalitis with oral corticosteroids

Background Autoimmune encephalitis is increasingly identified as a cause of nonviral, idiopathic encephalitis. Present treatment algorithms recommend costly immune-modulating treatments and do not identify a role for oral corticosteroids. Objective To present a patient with γ-aminobutyric acid B receptor–antibody encephalitis before and after treatment with oral corticosteroids. Design Case report. Setting The inpatient course as well as outpatient follow-up is discussed. Patient A 43-year-old man with initial presentation of seizures and altered mental status. Intervention Our patient was treated with an extended course of oral corticosteroids as an outpatient. Results After treatment with oral corticosteroids, our patient had steady clinical improvement, achieved seizure freedom, and experienced improved mental status to within normal limits. Conclusions This case supports the use of low-cost oral corticosteroids in treating patients with γ-aminobutyric acid B receptor–antibody encephalitis.