Autoimmune encephalitis in eastern China over last decade: a multi-center retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a growing neurological concern involving immune system attacks on the central nervous system.
• Limited longitudinal data exists on AE diagnosis, treatment, and costs in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the evolution of AE diagnosis, treatment, and economic burden in Eastern China.
• To identify trends in AE patient demographics, diagnostics, therapies, outcomes, and costs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective multi-center study of 436 definite AE patients (2015-2024).
• Systematic review of demographic data, diagnostic methods, immunotherapies, clinical outcomes (mRS), and inpatient costs.

Main Results:

• Diagnosed AE cases and subtypes increased, with rising novel antibody and antibody-negative cases.
• Diagnostic delay significantly decreased; second-line treatment use and favorable outcomes (mRS ≤ 2) increased.
• Inpatient costs trended upward, especially post-2020, linked to advanced diagnostics and therapies.

Conclusions:

• AE care in Eastern China shows earlier diagnosis, diverse treatments, and improved outcomes.
• Rising costs highlight the need to balance healthcare spending with treatment efficacy for varied AE types.