Characteristics and outcome-related factors of seizure at the first onset of autoimmune encephalitis: A retrospective study

Aims Seizure outcome of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) varies from seizure-free to refractory epilepsy, and the associated factors remain unclear. We aimed to describe seizure characteristics, identify seizure outcome-related factors, and discuss the medication strategy of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) at the first onset of AE. Methods We retrospectively studied the data of 86 patients with clinically diagnosed AE. The clinical characteristics were described using a chi-square test. Seizure outcome-related factors were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results 56 patients were finally enrolled, with antibodies to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor found in 29, to gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor B found in 13, and to leucine-rich glioma-inactivated protein 1 found in 14. Status epilepticus occurrence and onset with seizure lead to a poor seizure outcome, while administration of human gamma globulin and a low antibody titer contributed to a good seizure outcome. Conclusions In the acute phase, seizure characteristics may be considered in the utilization of AEDs. For patients with seizure-free status in the acute phase, clinical manifestation (onset with seizure or not, whether status epilepticus occurs or not), therapy regimen (human gamma globulin administered or not), and antibody titer may be considered when formulating the strategy for withdrawal of AEDs post-acute phase.