Science Magazine Podcast How the immune system can cause psychosis, and tool use in otters
May 16, 2024
Learn about the intriguing connection between the immune system and psychosis, as well as how otters use tools to broaden their diet. Dive into the hunt for biomarkers in autoimmune disorders and discover how sea otters gain energy benefits by cracking open tough prey with tools.
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Ovarian Teratomas and Psychosis
- In 2005, Joseph DelMoll encountered a woman with psychosis, paranoia, and combative behavior.
- Steroids improved her condition, revealing a link between ovarian teratomas and brain inflammation.
Autoimmune Encephalitis
- Autoimmune encephalitis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain.
- This can cause various symptoms, from seizures to psychosis, often misdiagnosed as mental illness.
Extreme Psychosis and Exorcism
- Some cases of autoimmune encephalitis are so extreme they were mistaken for demonic possession in the past.
- Patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis often experience sudden and extreme psychosis.