Encephalitis Antibodies
| Category | Immunology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Voltage gated potassium channel antibodies are seen in neuromyotonia. |
| Clinical Indications |
Presentation of muscle cramps, myotonia-like symptoms, excessive sweating, myokymia and fasciculations Diagnosis of Morvan's syndrome (sleep disorders, memory loss and confusion) |
| Reference range | Normal = 0 – 69 pmol/L Equivocal = 70-130 pmol/L Positive = >130 pmol/ |
| Sample & container required | RST (rust top), Gel SST (yellow top), Can also be performed on CSF |
| Sample volume | 5-10 mL (2 mL serum) |
| Turnaround time | 28 days |
| Notes | Not currently performed in house; this test is referred to the University Hospital, Birmingham. |