Abstract
Rapidly progressive dementia (RPD) or cognitive decline is a common presenting complaint
in neurology. While primary dementia is often a concern, other forms of reversible
dementia must be thoroughly considered. This article focuses on the growing field
of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) as it pertains to the differential diagnostic considerations
in a work-up for RPD. Understanding clues in the history and examination is the first
step in identifying patients with a potential autoimmune cause for RPD. While testing
for infectious and toxic-metabolic etiologies is commonly preformed, it is necessary
to consider early ancillary testing for AE in appropriate cases of RPD. Autoantibody
testing in the spinal fluid and serum, brain imaging, and electroencephalography all
form the first line of investigations for AE. Treatment options and strategies depend
on the AE subtype and a number of individual patient considerations.
Keywords
autoimmune encephalitis - rapidly progressive dementia - autoimmune dementia
