Antibody-mediated autoimmune encephalitis: A practical approach

Abstract

Antibody-mediated autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a heterogeneous group of inflammatory central nervous system disorders. Symptoms typically include subacute, progressive neuropsychiatric symptoms with associated cognitive dysfunction, movement disorders, and autoimmune seizures. The diagnosis should be based on objective neurologic dysfunction in combination with auto antibody testing. Treatment with immunotherapies requires both short-term and long-term strategies depending on the specific syndrome and potential for relapse. In this paper, we review key features of AE, focusing on syndromes involving cell surface and synaptic proteins, and share a practical approach to the diagnosis and management, including common pitfalls associated with nonspecific antibody findings.