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Test Category: Immunology

Investigation Name:Autoimmune Encephalitis Screen (Serum)

Alias or Abbreviation:Encephalitis

Accreditation:Yes

Intro:

Autoantibodies against neuronal surface antigens are found in patients with autoimmune encephalitis. As well as other antigens, they may be directed against glutamate receptors (types NMDA and AMPA), GABAB receptors, and components of the voltage-gated potassium channels (VGKC, DPPX) or VGKC-associated proteins (LGI1, CASPR2, Contactin-2).

As these antigens play a role in synaptic signal transduction and plasticity, patients often present with seizures and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

See also VGCC and paraneoplastic antibodies.

Pathology Laboratory:Immunology Laboratory

Requestable Seperately?Yes

Tests in Profile:- NMDAR
- AMPAR1 and 2
- Voltage gated Potassium associated proteins (LGI1 & CASPR2)
- Gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor (GABABR1 and 2)

Minimum Sample Volume:0.5mL

Expected Turnaround Time:21 working days

Test Code:AENC

Sample Type:

Serum Gel Tube (Gold top)/ Plasma

Complex Reference Range:Positive/Negative

Reference Laboratory Details:Clinical Immunology Service, University of Birmingham

Referred to Another Laboratory?Yes

Storage Requirements:Refrigerate (2 – 8C) after serum separation

Posting Address / Requirements:First Class post at ambient temperature

Lead Contact Details:rwh-tr.bcpsimmunologyclinicalqueries@nhs.net

Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.ImmunologyLab@nhs.net

UKAS Reference Number:9556

Contact Number:01902 695279 or Ext 85279