[Autoimmune encephalitis and its related-disorders].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Context:

• Autoimmune encephalitis is increasingly recognized, involving autoantibodies against neuronal surface and intracellular antigens.
• Identification of specific autoantibodies has advanced the understanding of diverse encephalitis subtypes.
• Limbic encephalitis, often presenting with psychosis and seizures, is frequently associated with specific autoantibodies.

Purpose:

• To review the identification of autoantibodies in various forms of autoimmune encephalitis.
• To highlight the role of proteomics in discovering novel autoantigens.
• To discuss diagnostic approaches and the importance of immunotherapy.

Summary:

• Autoantibodies against cell surface (e.g., NMDA receptor, AMPA receptor, VGKC complex) and intracellular antigens are key in autoimmune encephalitis.
• Proteomics aids in identifying target antigens, guiding the selection of appropriate detection assays (ELISA, immunoblot, cell-based assays).
• Specific associations, like anti-NMDA receptor antibodies with ovarian teratoma and various antibodies in cerebellar ataxia, are clinically significant.

Impact:

• Accurate diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis through antibody detection is critical for initiating timely immunotherapy.
• Understanding autoantibody targets improves diagnostic specificity and therapeutic strategies.
• This knowledge contributes to classifying distinct neurological disorders and improving patient outcomes.