Rare but Deadly: Vietnam’s Rising Cases of Autoimmune Encephalitis Linked to Ovarian Teratoma

Recently, Cho Ray Hospital has experienced a surge in cases of autoimmune encephalitis, with 17 patients admitted within the past 18 months. The majority of these cases are linked to antibodies from ovarian teratoma, resulting in four fatalities. Dr. Le Quoc Hung, Head of the Department of Tropical Diseases and Anti-Poison Resuscitation Unit at Cho Ray Hospital, notes that the prevalence of this disease has significantly increased in Vietnam over the past eight months, making it a newly discovered condition.

The average age of patients treated at Cho Ray Hospital for autoimmune encephalitis is 23 years old, with most cases arriving in critical condition. Treatment costs can be substantial and average around one billion VND per patient. Surgical intervention is sometimes necessary, particularly for cases involving ovarian teratoma. However, surgery can have long-term effects on fertility and endocrine function. The treatment process can be complex and expensive, requiring ongoing hormone therapy for some patients.

Autoimmune encephalitis is a condition where brain tissue is damaged by antibodies produced by the body. These antibodies are often associated with anti-NMDAR antibodies and can be linked to ovarian teratoma. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment as delayed diagnosis can lead to severe consequences. Treatment typically involves a combination of interventions such as plasma exchange, medication, and surgery to remove tumors.

Doctors are working towards developing national standards for diagnosing and treating autoimmune encephalitis. Patients may exhibit symptoms like memory loss, behavioral changes or seizures early detection of the disease is essential to improve outcomes for patients with this challenging condition.

In conclusion, autoimmune encephalitis is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. With more cases being reported in Vietnam every year healthcare providers need to continue working together to improve diagnostic capabilities and develop effective treatment options while also raising awareness about the importance of early detection among patients who may exhibit symptoms like memory loss or seizures.