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Autoimmune encephalitis and epilepsy

Earlier diagnosis can help optimize outcomes

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is a condition of the central nervous system that can impair function and present via onset of memory disturbance, cognitive impairment, seizures (autoimmune epilepsy), psychosis, loss of consciousness, or even coma. It can be difficult to recognize due to a wide range of symptoms and overlapping clinical, imaging, and laboratory features that mimic other disorders.

Comprehensive testing solutions help streamline the path
to diagnosis

The Autoimmune Encephalitis Evaluation panels from Quest are built on 25 antibodies commonly found in autoimmune encephalitis. A cell-based assay (CBA) panel for neuronal cell-surface antigens is always performed and includes NMDA antibodies that are consistent with limbic encephalitis. Always performing a CBA means an increased sensitivity, and you can get the insights you need sooner to help make a differential diagnosis and get patients the treatment they may need more quickly.

Panels include the most prevalent encephalitis antibodies, including Ma2/Ta and Zic4

CBA panel is always performed to increase sensitivity and accelerate diagnosis, and includes NMDA antibodies that are consistent with limbic encephalitis

Turnaround time of 3 to 14 days can help you make a differential diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment

 

Test name
Encephalitis Antibody Evaluation with Reflex to Titer and Line Blot, Serum
Encephalitis Antibody Evaluation with Reflex to Titer and Line Blot, CSF
Epilepsy Antibody Evaluation with Reflex to Titer and Line Blot, Serum
Epilepsy Antibody Evaluation with Reflex to Titer and Line Blot, CSF

 

As part of our commitment to responsible testing—the right test for the right patient at the right time—our encephalitis and epilepsy panels cannot be ordered together.

The Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis Evaluation from Quest is a curated panel of antibodies to help diagnose autoimmune encephalitis earlier in children.

Small sample volume


Requires only 1.2 mL of serum or CSF

Flexible specimen options


Testing available using serum or CSF

Rapid turnaround time


Results available in 4–6 days

 

Test name
Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis Evaluation with Reflexes, Serum
Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis Evaluation with Reflexes, CSF

 

As guidelines support use of both serum and CSF, our pediatric encephalitis panels can be ordered together.

One patient’s story

In the field of rare diseases, patients can find themselves caught in a long, stress-evoking diagnostic odyssey. Finding a name for the condition that plagues them can take many years that are filled with seemingly endless tests, procedures, and physician visits.
Read Maddy Boehme’s inspiring story

Reference

  1. Titulaer MJ, McCracken L, Gabilondo I, et al. Treatment and prognostic factors for long-term outcome in patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: 
an observational cohort study. Lancet Neurol. 2013;12(2):157-165. doi:10.1016/s1474-4422(12)70310-1

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