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Description

Ataxia and choreiform movements in the pediatric population hold an expansive differential, including infectious, autoimmune, genetic, toxicology, neurologic, and behavioral etiologies that can make accurate diagnosis challenging. Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor еnceрhalitiѕ usually affects young adults and children. It generally presents with prodromal headaches, fevers, or a viral-like process, followed by psychiatric and/or neurological symptoms. Diagnosis is confirmed by positive immսոοglobulin G antibodies against the GluN1 subunit of the NMDA receptor. Early initiation of immunomodulatory therapy is associated with improved outcomes, but progressive neurologic deterioration and death can occur if untreated. This case highlights a post-infectious syndrome in a pediatric patient with ataxia, hypersomnolence, and chorea, in the setting of known, non-verbal autism.

Publication Date

5-9-2025

Disciplines

Pediatrics

Comments

2025 Research Day Corewell Health West, Grand Rapids, MI, May 9, 2025. Abstract 1657

Writhy, Weary, and Wobbly. What Could it Be? An Atypical Presentation of Chorea and Ataxia in a Pediatric Patient

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