Bortezomib for treatment of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis in a pediatric patient refractory to conventional therapy.

Purpose: The case of a pediatric patient with treatment refractory anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis treated with the plasma cell-depleting therapy bortezomib is reported.

Summary: A 5-year-old female presented to the hospital with a 1-week history of altered mental status, agitation, and possible seizure-like activity. She was admitted to the hospital for suspected meningitis or meningoencephalitis and an extensive workup was completed, including sending blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for testing for NMDA receptor antibodies.