Autoimmune Encephalitis: Evolving Clinical Spectrum and Updated Management

Abstract

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is a noninfectious encephalitis which is an emerging entity due to the detection of autoantibody. It is mostly triggered by viral infections, tumor, etc. Clinical clues to diagnosis are acute or subacute onset of seizure, movement disorder, psychiatric or behavioral disorder, autonomic disturbances, etc. Detection of autoantibody from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or serum plays important role in the diagnosis. Extreme delta brush, diffuse slowing or epileptic discharges may be found in electroencephalopgram (EEG). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain findings are nonspecific, and may be normal or abnormal. Timely and appropriate immunotherapy is very important for better outcomes. Maintenance therapy is needed to prevent the relapse. This review will highlight the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical spectrum, investigation, and management of AIE.