Glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65)-mediated autoimmune musicogenic epilepsy in a patient with acute myeloid leukaemia
Abstract
We describe a woman in her 30s who presented with progressive cognitive decline and reflex focal seizures triggered by specific auditory stimuli. Serum autoimmune testing demonstrated markedly elevated anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) antibody titres (>2000 IU/mL). A paraneoplastic work-up revealed acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). After comprehensive neurological and haematological evaluation, she was diagnosed with paraneoplastic anti-GAD65-mediated autoimmune epilepsy, consistent with limbic encephalitis. This case is notable as it highlights a rare association between AML and paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis with anti-GAD65 antibodies.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Autoimmune Neurological Disorders and Treatments
Epilepsy research and treatment
Peripheral Neuropathies and Disorders
Publication details
- Journal / source
- BMJ Case Reports
- Volume
- 19
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e268888–e268888
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN