Rationale: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is an auto-immune and paraneoplastic encephalitis with prominent neuropsychiatric manifestations. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor is located in the forebrain and hippocampus and plays a role in learning and memory. Patient concerns: A 29-year-old female patient with anti-NMDAR encephalitis, was reported and we also reviewed the literature and summarised the characteristics of the cases. Diagnoses: In the present study, we reported 1 patient with anti-NMDAR encephalitis diagnosed by the detection of anti-NMDAR antibodies in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Interventions: The patient received glucocorticoids and anti-epilepsy treatment as well as human immunoglobulin treatment. Outcomes: After treatment, the patient gradually regained consciousness and was discharged after 3 months of rehabilitation. At the follow-up 2 months later, the patient had the sequelae of memory impairment and limb movement disorders. Lessons: An accurate early diagnosis and active treatment are crucial to the improvement in the prognosis of patients with anti-NMDAR receptor encephalitis.