Autoimmune encephalitis is a condition in which the immune system attacks the brain and causes inflammation, as well as neurological and psychiatric symptoms. Due to symptom overlap with other conditions, it is often misdiagnosed. But, working with a team of experts who deeply understand autoimmune encephalitis and its types can help patients secure proper treatment using immunotherapy, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and other advanced medical interventions.
Autoimmune encephalitis is a very serious, potentially life-threatening condition that causes inflammation in the brain when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissue. Because it is rare, the risk of misdiagnosis is high. This can be incredibly dangerous since a favorable outcome only comes with the right treatment.
This article explores autoimmune encephalitis, providing a deeper understanding of the types, symptoms, risks, diagnoses, and treatment options.
What is Autoimmune Encephalitis?
Autoimmune encephalitis is a condition where one’s immune system attacks healthy cells in the brain. This leads to inflammation that can interfere with normal brain functions and lead to an array of neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
There are different causes and different types of autoimmune encephalitis. And, as a result, each patient may present with a unique set of symptoms. Nonetheless, it almost always entails an overactive immune response that tends to target the nervous system.
To gain a better understanding of this condition, let’s take a closer look at it.
Causes of Autoimmune Encephalitis
Researchers are not entirely sure of the exact cause of autoimmune encephalitis. Many cases involve autoantibodies that target certain receptors in the brain, such as the NMDA receptor. Others have these antibodies that target the brain proteins, potassium channels, and the AMPA receptors.
An underlying malignant tumor in another area of the body can trigger the autoimmune response. And yet still sometimes patients are suffering from autoimmune encephalitis without any identifiable trigger at all. This type is referred to as idiopathic by those in the medical community.
Types of Autoimmune Encephalitis
There are several different types of autoimmune encephalitis and each is known to be associated with a specific set of antibodies. Below are a few of the most common.
Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis. This is perhaps the most well-known type of autoimmune encephalitis. These patients often experience agitation, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and movement disorders.
Anti-AMPAR Encephalitis. Another form of the condition is known for rapidly declining cognitive issues and psychiatric disturbances.
Anti-LGI1 Encephalitis. This type is often linked to older adults. Patients present with seizures, confusion, and cognitive decline.
Still, other types of autoimmune encephalitis are out there— they are not well-known or commonly encountered.
Symptoms of Autoimmune Encephalitis
The symptoms can vary greatly, depending on the specific type of encephalitis and the area of the brain that is impacted. And there is no one defining characteristic of the condition.
Seizures
Those with this condition often experience seizures. It is usually the first sign that something is wrong — and prompts the initial contact with a medical professional.
Cognitive Issues
Cognitive function is almost always experienced in one way or another, such as confusion, memory problems, impaired judgment, or difficulty concentrating.
Psychiatric Symptoms
Psychiatric symptoms often go hand-in-hand with cognitive issues for those with autoimmune encephalitis. This may appear as anxiety, mood swings, paranoia, hallucinations, or even psychosis.
Movement Disorders
Patients can experience one or more movement disorders, including involuntary movements, tremors, difficulty with coordination or trouble speaking.
Other Symptoms
There are still other symptoms unrelated to the others that are often seen with this condition, such as:
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns
- Difficulty regulating body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate
- Persistent headaches
A medical team needs to consider all symptoms before offering a diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Autoimmune Encephalitis
Diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis can be challenging. This is why it is so vital to have a thorough diagnostic process that will give the whole picture of a patient’s health, rather than just focusing on symptoms and the most common ailments they are linked to.
Medical History and Exam. A review of medical history along with a physical exam can help check for signs of brain dysfunction. Lots of questions about symptoms, infections, and autoimmune diseases should be asked.
Blood tests. Blood tests can be used to detect the presence of specific antibodies. This is all that is needed to confirm a suspicion.
Diagnostic Imaging. Diagnostic tools, such as MRIs and EEGs are also helpful in giving a clear picture of the brain and its activity.
All of this can take time which is why seeking treatment early is key.
Risk of Misdiagnosis
Many patients experience symptoms that develop over time. When they do, they can easily be mistaken for various neurological or psychiatric conditions, including epilepsy or schizophrenia. After all, the symptoms overlap with many other medical conditions.
This leads to a great number of patients being misdiagnosed — especially if working with a doctor who doesn’t have a thorough understanding of autoimmune encephalitis.
It is crucial to get to the root cause of health issues to find proper healing.
Treatment of Autoimmune Encephalitis
How is autoimmune encephalitis treated? The main focus is typically to reduce inflammation while using supportive care to manage symptoms. Immunotherapy is often utilized first.
For those with seizures and psychiatric symptoms, anticonvulsants and antipsychotic medications may be beneficial.
Of course, new alternative treatments are available that may provide a great amount of relief for patients.
Cutting-Edge Treatment at Lyme Mexico
Struggling with autoimmune encephalitis or its symptoms can be tough if you aren’t getting the right treatment and the right expert care. This is why you need the specialists at Lyme Mexico.
With the most advanced medical interventions and a deep understanding of the condition, Dr. Omar Morales and his team can provide you with everything you need to heal. Travel outside the country, such as outside the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, and find alternate treatments that will give you the relief you have been hoping for.
To learn more about Lyme Mexico’s alternative treatment options or to become a patient, contact us today. Schedule a consultation and become a patient today.
Conclusion
Autoimmune encephalitis is a serious, yet intricate condition that can significantly impact the brain. Symptoms can lead to a diagnosis involving an array of neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, seeking a team of experts and securing early treatment can yield the best results.