Anti-NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antibodies

Test/Profile Name

Anti-NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antibodies

Test/Profile Code

T002009

Clinical Usefullness

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune disease caused by antibodies against the brain protein, NMDA. Affected individuals display distinctive symptoms, including significant psychiatric disturbances, seizures, confusion, memory loss, and agitation. Woman are affected more often than men. Testing is used to confirm a diagnosis of NMDAR encephalitis. While a significant portion of patients are nonparaneoplastic, ovarian teratoma is the most common tumor-related cause. Men, women, and children without tumors have also been diagnosed with antiNMDAR encephalitis. Absence of NMDAR  antibody does not rule out a diagnosis of other forms of autoimmune encephalitis.


Specimen Type and Minimal Volume

Variable Please confirm with the laboratory prior to testing.

Include Test

N/A