Morvan syndrome: rare or underdiagnosed?

Morvan syndrome is a rare form of encephalitis with a highly variable presentation, making it largely unknown and under-reported. Patients who remain undiagnosed are likely to undergo rapid clinical deterioration. Quick diagnosis and treatment with immunomodulatory drugs such as steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin may reduce complications, and in many cases has been demonstrated to be curative. Presented here is the case of an 82-year-old man who received a delayed diagnosis of Morvan syndrome after presenting with vague symptoms that did not prompt immediate neurological review. The case illustrates the unique nature of Morvan syndrome, as well as the importance of early recognition and treatment of the condition.