Autoantibodies in Seizure Disorders of Unknown Etiology

Potential autoimmune etiologies are more common than previously suspected in both established and new-onset epilepsies.

Adult-onset idiopathic epilepsies remain enigmatic. Hypothesizing that some epilepsies without fulminant encephalitis-like presentations may be related to autoimmune, antineuronal antibody (Ab) disorders, researchers at one large metropolitan epilepsy center prospectively screened all patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology encountered in both in- and outpatient settings over 1 year.

Of 127 consented patients, 112 were included (9 were excluded after diagnosis with psychogenic nonepileptic spells); 31% of the 112 had new-onset and 69% had established epilepsy (mean duration, 12.8 years). The following serum Abs were tested: NMDAR, VGKC complex (VGKCc), LGI1, GAD65, GABA_B, AMPAR, ANNA-1 (Anti Hu), PCA-2, amphiphysin, CRMP-5, and TPO. Befor…

Reviewing Author

Robert C. Knowlton, MD, MSPH

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMore Health, Inc.; The Alliance of Medical Companies

Grant/Research SupportNIH Small Business Innovation Research

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSouthern Epilepsy & EEG Society (Treasurer)

Robert C. Knowlton, MD, MSPH

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMore Health, Inc.; The Alliance of Medical Companies

Grant/Research SupportNIH Small Business Innovation Research

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSouthern Epilepsy & EEG Society (Treasurer)

Autoantibodies in Seizure Disorders of Unknown Etiology

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Reviewing Author