Autoimmune Encephalitis Antibodies (LGI1, CASPR2, NMDA, DPPX, AMPA1/2, GABA B)
This test is performed by IIF on transfected fixed cells.
The autoimmune encephalitidies are immune-mediated brain disorders that often present rapidly (The below table lists the most common autoantibodies found in autoimmune encephalitis in descending order of frequency, those in bold are included in the autoimmune encephalitis screen.
Table adapted from Uy CE, Binks S, Irani SR. Autoimmune encephalitis: clinical spectrum and management. Practical Neurology 2021;21:412-423
Antibodies should be measured in CSF and serum. Any positive serum result should always be confirmed in CSF to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis (Dalmau J, Graus F. JAMA Neurol. 2023 Jan 1;80(1):12-14.)
This test detects antibodies to a panel of neuronal cell surface antigens including the glutamate receptors NMDAR and AMPA1/2, GABAB receptors, DPPX and the voltage gated potassium channel VGKC-associated proteins LGI1 and CASPR2. See also Neuronal (paraneoplastic) antibody screen, MOG, Aquaporin, glycine receptor antibodies.
The below table lists the most common autoantibodies found in autoimmune encephalitis in descending order of frequency, those in bold are included in the autoimmune encephalitis screen.
Table adapted from Uy CE, Binks S, Irani SR. Autoimmune encephalitis: clinical spectrum and management. Practical Neurology 2021;21:412-423
Antibodies should be measured in CSF and serum. Any positive serum result should always be confirmed in CSF to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis (Dalmau J, Graus F. JAMA Neurol. 2023 Jan 1;80(1):12-14.)
This test detects antibodies to a panel of neuronal cell surface antigens including the glutamate receptors NMDAR and AMPA1/2, GABAB receptors, DPPX and the voltage gated potassium channel VGKC-associated proteins LGI1 and CASPR2. See also Neuronal (paraneoplastic) antibody screen, MOG, Aquaporin, glycine receptor antibodies.
The differential diagnosis of encephalitis when alternative causes (infection, neoplasm, etc.) have been excluded.
Negative
Referred Test. Not currently performed in house.
Referral Laboratory: University Hospital, Birmingham.
Record last updated
September 4, 2025
Sample Container
5ml RST Vacutainers (Rust top)
Sample Container
5ml SST Vacutainers (Gold / Yellow top)
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