The field of autoimmune encephalitis has expanded tremendously over the recent years and now involves several types of diseases with different pathophysiology. Commonly, autoimmune encephalitis with pathogenic antibodies to cell surface proteins, those with antibodies to intracellular synaptic proteins, T-cell diseases associated with antibodies to intracellular antigens, and those associated with other autoimmune disorders are distinguished. Many forms of autoimmune encephalitis are paraneoplastic and convey a distinct risk profile for various tumors.
Early suspicion and diagnosis of autoimmune etiologies are of particular importance due to the need for early institution of immunosuppressive therapies to improve outcome. However, limited knowledge about and the wide spectrum of clinical presentation as well as similarities of the clinical, imaging and laboratory findings in infectious encephalitis, different forms of encephalopathies and acute psychiatric disorders hinder clinical suspicion and steps towards mandatory investigations.
This Research Topic aims to improve the understanding of clinical presentation and course of autoimmune encephalitis. Moreover, we want to provide insights to basic and ancillary investigations and emerging treatment options in autoimmune encephalitis. Both Review and Original Research articles are considered for submission. In addition, Opinion Articles and Case reports are also welcome if relevant insights to the field are provided.
The field of autoimmune encephalitis has expanded tremendously over the recent years and now involves several types of diseases with different pathophysiology. Commonly, autoimmune encephalitis with pathogenic antibodies to cell surface proteins, those with antibodies to intracellular synaptic proteins, T-cell diseases associated with antibodies to intracellular antigens, and those associated with other autoimmune disorders are distinguished. Many forms of autoimmune encephalitis are paraneoplastic and convey a distinct risk profile for various tumors.
Early suspicion and diagnosis of autoimmune etiologies are of particular importance due to the need for early institution of immunosuppressive therapies to improve outcome. However, limited knowledge about and the wide spectrum of clinical presentation as well as similarities of the clinical, imaging and laboratory findings in infectious encephalitis, different forms of encephalopathies and acute psychiatric disorders hinder clinical suspicion and steps towards mandatory investigations.
This Research Topic aims to improve the understanding of clinical presentation and course of autoimmune encephalitis. Moreover, we want to provide insights to basic and ancillary investigations and emerging treatment options in autoimmune encephalitis. Both Review and Original Research articles are considered for submission. In addition, Opinion Articles and Case reports are also welcome if relevant insights to the field are provided.
