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Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] AE Dheeraj Makkar, M.D.[2]

Overview

Overview

In Anti-NMDA encephalitis, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis often shows mildly elevated white blood cell count, modestly increased protein levels, and the presence of oligoclonal bands. CSF-specific tests like IgG index and oligoclonal band tests can provide diagnostic value.

Laboratory Findings

Laboratory Findings

CSF Findings

  • CSF white blood cells are frequently elevated in fewer than 200/mm3, and pleocytosis is commonly observed.
  • Protein concentration is either normal or modestly elevated, and 60% of patients have CSF-specific oligoclonal bands.
  • Immunoglobulin G (IgG) index and oligoclonal band tests are clinically relevant since they can be aberrant in normal CSF cell counts and protein levels.
References

References

[1] [2] Template:WH Template:WS

  1. Dalmau J, Gleichman AJ, Hughes EG, Rossi JE, Peng X, Lai M; et al. (2008). “Anti-NMDA-receptor encephalitis: case series and analysis of the effects of antibodies”. Lancet Neurol. 7 (12): 1091–8. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(08)70224-2. PMC 2607118. PMID 18851928.
  2. Titulaer MJ, McCracken L, Gabilondo I, Iizuka T, Kawachi I, Bataller L; et al. (2013). “Late-onset anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis”. Neurology. 81 (12): 1058–63. doi:10.1212/WNL.0b013e3182a4a49c. PMC 3795591. PMID 23946310.

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