Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT

Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis from Other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
CT
MRI
Echocardiography or Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT
CDC on Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT
Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT in the news
Blogs on Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT
Directions to Hospitals Treating Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
Risk calculators and risk factors for Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

CT imaging has limited diagnostic utility in anti-NMDA encephalitis, but it can help exclude other conditions, identify associated tumors, and detect complications. MRI is the preferred imaging modality for this condition.

Key CT Findings in Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis

CT (computed tomography) imaging plays a limited role in the diagnosis of anti-NMDA encephalitis. In the early stages of the disease, CT scans of the brain are often normal or show nonspecific findings. However, CT may be useful in certain situations:

• 1. Exclude other conditions: CT can help rule out structural abnormalities, such as tumors or intracranial hemorrhage, that may present with similar symptoms to anti-NMDA encephalitis.

• 2. Identify associated tumors: If an ovarian teratoma or other tumor is suspected as the underlying cause of anti-NMDA encephalitis, CT can help visualize the presence and characteristics of the tumor.

• 3. Detect complications: In some cases, complications such as cerebral edema or hydrocephalus may develop during the disease. CT can help identify these complications and guide further management.

• CT imaging has limited sensitivity and specificity in detecting the specific features of anti-NMDA encephalitis. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is considered the imaging modality of choice for evaluating patients suspected of having this condition, as it can reveal characteristic findings such as medial temporal lobe abnormalities.