Infections and Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis in Children and Adolescents: A Scoping Review of Evidence Since the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background/Objectives: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a common autoimmune encephalitis affecting children and adolescents. Its development has been associated with preceding or concomitant infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This scoping review characterized the association between infections and pediatric anti-NMDAR encephalitis, focusing on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, treatment, and prognosis from January 2020 to August 2025.