Description
Autoimmune Encephalitis Panel, Serum Comprehensive Blood Test for Autoimmune Brain Inflammation
The Autoimmune Encephalitis Panel (Serum) is an advanced diagnostic test that detects specific autoantibodies responsible for immune-mediated brain inflammation. Designed to assist neurologists in identifying the reversible causes of neuropsychiatric symptoms, seizures, and memory deficits, this panel delivers rapid and reliable results to support early therapeutic intervention.
What is Autoimmune Encephalitis?
Autoimmune Encephalitis is a neurological condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy proteins and receptors in the brain, leading to inflammation. Because symptoms often resemble acute psychiatric disorders, viral encephalitis, or neurodegenerative diseases, targeted antibody testing is critical for an accurate diagnosis. Early detection allows for timely immunosuppressive treatments, which can significantly improve patient recovery.
When Should This Test Be Ordered?
Your doctor or neurologist may recommend this panel if you or a loved one are experiencing sudden or unexplained symptoms such as:
Cognitive & Memory Decline: Rapid progression of confusion or memory loss.
Psychiatric Symptoms: Acute psychosis, hallucinations, anxiety, or marked mood changes.
Seizures: New-onset seizures resistant to standard anti-epileptic medications.
Movement Disorders: Involuntary movements, facial dyskinesia, tremor, or gait instability.
Sleep Disturbances & Severe Insomnia
Speech Alterations or Mutism
Key Antibodies Covered in This Panel
(Note: You can adjust this list based on the exact assay/reagent kit used in your laboratory)
Anti-NMDA Receptor (NR1): Strongly associated with psychiatric presentations and seizures, particularly in young adults and children.
Anti-LGI1: Associated with limbic encephalitis and faciobrachial dystonic seizures (FBDS).
Anti-CASPR2: Linked to encephalitis, peripheral hyperexcitability, and Morvan syndrome.
Anti-AMPA Receptor (GluR1/GluR2): Associated with limbic encephalitis and prominent psychiatric features.
Anti-GABA-B Receptor: Often linked to early-onset, severe seizures and limbic encephalitis.
Anti-DPPX: Associated with CNS hyperexcitability, cognitive decline, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Test Specifications & Patient Guidelines
| Parameter | Specification |
| Sample Type | Blood (Serum) – 3 mL to 5 mL in Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top |
| Preparation / Fasting | No fasting required. Inform your doctor about any recent immunosuppressive therapy. |
| Methodology | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) / Cell-Based Assay (CBA) or Immunoblot |
| Recommended For | Patients with acute neurological, psychiatric, or seizure disorders of unknown etiology |
| Report Turnaround Time | [Insert your lab’s TAT here, e.g., 48–72 Hours] |
| Home Sample Collection | Available across Kashmir through Kashmir Online Lab |
