DIAGNOSTIC TEST PANEL 195
Autoimmune Encephalitis
Diagnostic test panel for antibodies against AMPAR 1/2, LGI1, CASPR2, DPPX, NMDA-R, and GABA-BR. For suspicion of Autoimmune encephalitis.
Available as urgent test with results within 24 h.
Indication
Suspicion of Autoimmune encephalitis
Sample material
Serum
- Minim. volume: 0.5 mL
CSF
- Minim. volume: 0.5 mL
Transport
Within Sweden
- room temperature
International
- cold
Clinical background
Autoimmune encephalitis constitutes a group of brain diseases that are characterized by prominent neuropsychiatric symptoms and are associated with autoantibodies against neuronal antigens, often cell-surface proteins as ion channels or receptors. These diseases can occur in all ages, but some predominantly affect children and young adults.
Certain syndromes are recognized based on clinical characteristics, and the autoimmune pathogenesis can be supported with laboratory tests. Common clinical features include a subacute change in behavior, psychosis, seizures, memory, and cognitive deficits, abnormal movements, dysautonomia, and a decreased level of consciousness. However, in some cases, no systemic manifestations other than autonomic dysfunction are seen.
Antibodies against neuronal cell-surface proteins, such as ion channels or receptors, are considered to have pathogenic importance, and immunotherapy is often effective. Prompt diagnosis and treatment should be started as early as possible for improvement or full recovery in most cases. Antibody titers can be used to monitor treatment effectiveness. Screening for cancer diagnosis is recommended.
- Antibodies against AMPA 1/2 receptors can be seen in paraneoplastic syndrome and classical autoimmune encephalitis, but cases of isolated psychoses have also been described.
- Antibodies against CASPR2 may occur in neuromyotonia, autoimmune encephalitis, and Morvan's Syndrome. CASPR2 (Contactin Associated Protein 2) is a subunit of the potassium channel complex (VGKC) and is included in the group of extracellular antigens.
- Antibodies against DPPX (dipeptidyl aminopeptidase-like protein 6) in patient serum or CSF are of particular importance in differential diagnosis of encephalitis.
- Antibodies against GABA B receptors may occur in classical autoimmune encephalitis. Antibodies may occur together with other autoantibodies in around 50% of the cases (antibodies against GAD-65, VGCC, and TPO).
- Antibodies against LGI-1 have been reported in classical autoimmune encephalitis and epilepsy. LGI-1 is a subunit in the potassium channel complex (VGKC).
- Antibodies against the NMDA receptor (NR1 unit) are indicative of autoimmune encephalitis. NMDA receptor belongs to the family of ionotropic glutamate receptors and is widely expressed in the temporal lobe (limbic system).
References
Read "Updated Diagnostic Criteria for Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes" (open access)
Tests included in panel
Need pricing information?
How to order
This test panel is available worldwide for hospitals, clinics, and physicians.
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Print and complete the request form
Download the request form. Clearly state the name and phone number of the referring hospital, clinic, or physician. -
Prepare your samples
Serum: At least 0.5 mL serum (plain serum tubes without additives).
CSF: At least 0.5 mL CSF (polypropylene tubes).
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Send samples and request form
Within Sweden
Samples can be sent at room temperature to:
Envelopes and smaller boxes:
Wieslab AB, Box 50117, 20211 Malmö, Sweden
Larger boxes and frozen samples:
Wieslab AB, Lundavägen 151, 21224 Malmö, Sweden
International
Send samples cold to:
Wieslab AB, Lundavägen 151, 21224 Malmö, Sweden
Last updated: 2025-08-18
