What is autoimmune encephalitis?
Autoimmune encephalitis is a condition characterised by brain inflammation that occurs because the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain tissue.
What are some common symptoms of autoimmune encephalitis?
- Behavioural, mood or personality changes
- Seizures
- Muscle stiffness
- Memory problems, confusion or attention deficits
- Excessive sweating
- Abnormal sleep patterns
Diagnosis
We will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis. If autoimmune encephalitis is suspected, your doctor may arrange the following assessments to confirm the diagnosis:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Neurological evaluation
- Blood tests
- Lumbar puncture
- Medical imaging such as an MRI or CT scan
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Get referred
To receive a diagnosis or treatment from an Epworth specialist, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP and request a referral.
Treatment and management
Your Epworth care team will work together with you and your family to plan the best approach to treatment and symptom management. Your Epworth specialist may suggest the following to help manage and reduce the impact of your symptoms:
Immunotherapy
As autoimmune encephalitis results in the immune system mistakenly attacking the brain tissue, immunotherapy aims to modulate the immune system and reduce the autoimmune response.
Medications
Several medications may be prescribed to patients to address the symptoms associated with the condition.
Rehabilitation
Depending on the severity of symptoms, rehabilitation may play a crucial role in helping you to regain strength, coordination and independence.
Our specialised neurological rehabilitation programs and clinics focus on enhancing your physical and cognitive abilities, promoting independence and offering emotional and psychological assistance to you and your family, with the aim of helping you to live your best life.
Ongoing management
Your Epworth care team will arrange follow-up appointments to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Our locations
For autoimmune encephalitis
Treatment locations
Neurological rehabilitation locations
Your care team at Epworth
The multidisciplinary team for autoimmune encephalitis includes a specialist neurologist and allied health professionals, such as an occupational therapist and speech pathologist.
Learn more about the health professionals in the neurology care team.
Choosing your Epworth specialist
Meet our specialist neurologists and neurosurgeons, accredited at Epworth.