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Mojžišová H, Elišák M, Krýsl D, Hanzalová J, Kalina A, Petržalka M, Doležalová I, Červenka M, Cvičková B, Leško R, Šroubek J, Sochůrková D, Hemza J, Brichtová E, Dargvainiene J, Vojtěch Z, Brázdil M, Wandinger KP, Leypoldt F, Marusič P. Low prevalence of neural autoantibodies in perioperative cerebrospinal fluid samples of epilepsy surgery patients: A multicenter prospective study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:687-697. [PMID: 38279908 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Refractory epilepsy may have an underlying autoimmune etiology. Our aim was to assess the prevalence of neural autoantibodies in a multicenter national prospective cohort of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy undergoing epilepsy surgery utilizing comprehensive clinical, serologic, and histopathological analyses. METHODS We prospectively recruited patients undergoing epilepsy surgery for refractory focal epilepsy not caused by a brain tumor from epilepsy surgery centers in the Czech Republic. Perioperatively, we collected cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and/or serum samples and performed comprehensive commercial and in-house assays for neural autoantibodies. Clinical data were obtained from the patients' medical records, and histopathological analysis of resected brain tissue was performed. RESULTS Seventy-six patients were included, mostly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-lesional cases (74%). Mean time from diagnosis to surgery was 21 ± 13 years. Only one patient (1.3%) had antibodies in the CSF and serum (antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase 65) in relevant titers; histology revealed focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) III (FCD associated with hippocampal sclerosis [HS]). Five patients' samples displayed CSF-restricted oligoclonal bands (OCBs; 6.6%): three cases with FCD (one with FCD II and two with FCD I), one with HS, and one with negative histology. Importantly, eight patients (one of them with CSF-restricted OCBs) had findings on antibody testing in individual serum and/or CSF tests that could not be confirmed by complementary tests and were thus classified as nonspecific, yet could have been considered specific without confirmatory testing. Of these, two had FCD, two gliosis, and four HS. No inflammatory changes or lymphocyte cuffing was observed histopathologically in any of the 76 patients. SIGNIFICANCE Neural autoantibodies are a rare finding in perioperatively collected serum and CSF of our cohort of mostly MRI-lesional epilepsy surgery patients. Confirmatory testing is essential to avoid overinterpretation of autoantibody-positive findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Mojžišová
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Elišák
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Krýsl
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Hanzalová
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Immunology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adam Kalina
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marko Petržalka
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Irena Doležalová
- Brno Epilepsy Center, First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Matěj Červenka
- Na Homolce Hospital Epilepsy Center, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Robert Leško
- Department of Neurosurgery for Children and Adults, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Šroubek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Na Homolce Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Sochůrková
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Hemza
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Brichtová
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Justina Dargvainiene
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Zdeněk Vojtěch
- Na Homolce Hospital Epilepsy Center, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Brázdil
- Brno Epilepsy Center, First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Klaus-Peter Wandinger
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Frank Leypoldt
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Petr Marusič
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
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Sanli E, Sirin NG, Kucukali CI, Baykan B, Ulusoy CA, Bebek N, Yilmaz V, Tuzun E. Peripheral blood regulatory B and T cells are decreased in patients with focal epilepsy. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 387:578287. [PMID: 38241950 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2024.578287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Patients with focal epilepsy of unknown cause (FEoUC) may display T cell infiltration in post-surgery brain specimens and increased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by B and T cells, indicating potential involvement of adaptive immunity. Our study aimed to investigate the peripheral blood distribution of B and T cell subgroups to find clues supporting the distinct organization of adaptive immunity in FEoUC. Twenty-two patients with FEoUC and 25 age and sex matched healthy individuals were included. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were immunophenotyped by flow cytometry. Expression levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines and FOXP3 were measured by real-time PCR. Carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) proliferation assay was conducted using CD4+ T cells. Patients with FEoUC showed significantly decreased regulatory B (Breg), B1a, plasmablast and regulatory T (Treg) cell percentages, and increased switched memory B and Th17 cell ratios. Moreover, CD4+CD25+CD49d- Tregs of FEoUC patients displayed significantly reduced TGFB1 and FOXP3, but increased IL10 gene expression levels. CD4+ helper T cells of patients with FEoUC gave more exaggerated proliferation responses to phytohemagglutinin, anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 stimulation. Patients with FEoUC display increased effector lymphocyte, decreased regulatory lymphocyte ratios, and impaired Treg function and enhanced lymphocyte proliferation capacity. Overall, this pro-inflammatory phenotype lends support to the involvement of adaptive immunity in FEoUC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Sanli
- Department of Neuroscience, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey; Institute of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nermin Gorkem Sirin
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cem Ismail Kucukali
- Department of Neuroscience, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betul Baykan
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Neurology, EMAR Medical Center, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Canan Aysel Ulusoy
- Department of Neuroscience, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nerses Bebek
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Vuslat Yilmaz
- Department of Neuroscience, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Erdem Tuzun
- Department of Neuroscience, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Hernández G, Sala-Padró J, Adell V, Rico I, Gasa-Roqué A, Morandeira F, Campdelacreu J, Gascon J, Falip M. Cognitive decline in adult-onset temporal lobe epilepsy: Insights from aetiology. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2024; 237:108159. [PMID: 38354426 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2024.108159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify patients with adult-onset temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) at risk of developing cognitive decline. Detecting which patients, aetiologies, or factors are most closely related with memory decline would allow us to identify patients that would eventually benefit from more specific treatment. METHODS Single centre, retrospective analysis of a prospectively followed-up cohort study, including all patients with the diagnosis of adult-onset TLE during 2013, with a minimum follow-up of five years. Memory and cognitive decline were analysed at 5 years and at last follow-up. RESULTS Of 89 initially selected patients, 71 were included. After 5 years, 11/71 (15.5%) patients suffered cognitive decline, of which 1/71 (4%) developed dementia. At last follow-up (range 65-596 m) a total of 34/71 (47.8%) patients were diagnosed with cognitive decline, specifically either memory decline or dementia. Cognitive decline at 5 years was related to: 1. Age at onset: 62.65 years (SD 9.04) in the group with cognitive decline vs 50.33 y. (SD 13.02 in the group without cognitive decline; p=0.004); 2. Onset as status epilepticus (3/6 in patients with memory decline vs 8/65 in patients without cognitive decline; p=0.04); 3. Immune aetiology: 42% compared with unknown (10%) and structural (10%) aetiologies; p=0.036; 4. Hippocampal sclerosis on MRI: 5/11 patients with cognitive decline vs 9/51 patients without cognitive decline; p=0.035. Cognitive decline was not related to seizure frequency, sex, or age (p=0.78; p=0.40; p=0.95, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Older age at epilepsy onset, onset as status epilepticus, immune aetiology, and hippocampal sclerosis are risk factors for developing cognitive decline in patients with adult-onset temporal lobe epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Hernández
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Neurological Disease and Neurogenetics group, Neuroscience Area, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Sala-Padró
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Neurological Disease and Neurogenetics group, Neuroscience Area, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Adell
- Hospital Consorci Sanitari Alt Penedès i Garraf, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Rico
- Neuropsychology Department, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Gasa-Roqué
- Neuropsychology Department, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Morandeira
- Immunology Department, Biochemistry Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Campdelacreu
- Dementia Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Gascon
- Dementia Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Falip
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Neurological Disease and Neurogenetics group, Neuroscience Area, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain.
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Schulz P, Lütt A, Stöcker W, Teegen B, Holtkamp M, Prüss H. High frequency of cerebrospinal fluid autoantibodies in patients with seizures or epilepsies of unknown etiology. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1211812. [PMID: 37475738 PMCID: PMC10356105 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1211812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The increasing identification of specific autoantibodies against brain structures allows further refinement of the group of autoimmune-associated epilepsies and affects diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms. The early etiological allocation of a first seizure is particularly challenging, and the contribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is not fully understood. Methods In this retrospective study with a mean of 7.8 years follow-up involving 39 well-characterized patients with the initial diagnosis of new-onset seizure or epilepsy of unknown etiology and 24 controls, we determined the frequency of autoantibodies to brain proteins in CSF/serum pairs using cell-based assays and unbiased immunofluorescence staining of unfixed murine brain sections. Results Autoantibodies were detected in the CSF of 30.8% of patients. Underlying antigens involved glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, but also a range of yet undetermined epitopes on neurons, glial and vascular cells. While antibody-positive patients had higher frequencies of cancer, they did not differ from antibody-negative patients with respect to seizure type, electroencephalography (EEG) and cranial magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) findings, neuropsychiatric comorbidities or pre-existing autoimmune diseases. In 5.1% of patients with seizures or epilepsy of initially presumed unknown etiology, mostly CSF findings resulted in etiological reallocation as autoimmune-associated epilepy. Discussion These findings strengthen the potential role for routine CSF analysis. Further studies are needed to understand the autoantibody contribution to etiologically unclear epilepsies, including determining the antigenic targets of underlying autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Schulz
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alva Lütt
- Psychiatric University Hospital Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Bianca Teegen
- Institute for Experimental Immunology, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Martin Holtkamp
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Epilepsy-Center Berlin-Brandenburg, Institute for Diagnostics of Epilepsy, Berlin, Germany
| | - Harald Prüss
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Tröscher AR, Mair KM, Verdú de Juan L, Köck U, Steinmaurer A, Baier H, Becker A, Blümcke I, Finzel M, Geis C, Höftberger R, Mawrin C, von Oertzen TJ, Pitsch J, Surges R, Voges B, Weis S, Winklehner M, Woermann F, Bauer J, Bien CG. Temporal lobe epilepsy with GAD antibodies: neurons killed by T cells not by complement membrane attack complex. Brain 2023; 146:1436-1452. [PMID: 36314080 PMCID: PMC10115353 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is one of the syndromes linked to antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD). It has been questioned whether 'limbic encephalitis with GAD antibodies' is a meaningful diagnostic entity. The immunopathogenesis of GAD-TLE has remained enigmatic. Improvement of immunological treatability is an urgent clinical concern. We retrospectively assessed the clinical, MRI and CSF course as well as brain tissue of 15 adult patients with GAD-TLE who underwent temporal lobe surgery. Brain tissue was studied by means of immunohistochemistry, multiplex fluorescent microscopy and transcriptomic analysis for inflammatory mediators and neuronal degeneration. In 10 patients, there was a period of mediotemporal swelling and T2 signal increase; in nine cases this occurred within the first 6 years after symptom onset. This resulted in unilateral or bilateral hippocampal sclerosis; three cases developed hippocampal sclerosis within the first 2 years. All CSF studies done within the first year (n = 6) revealed intrathecal synthesis of immunoglobulin G. Temporal lobe surgeries were done after a median disease duration of 9 years (range 3 weeks to 60 years). Only two patients became seizure-free. Brain parenchyma collected during surgery in the first 6 years revealed high numbers of plasma cells but no signs of antibody-mediated tissue damage. Even more dense was the infiltration by CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that were seen to locally proliferate. Further, a portion of these cells revealed an antigen-specific resident memory T cell phenotype. Finally, CTLs with cytotoxic granzyme B+ granules were also seen in microglial nodules and attached to neurons, suggesting a CTL-mediated destruction of these cells. With longer disease duration, the density of all lymphocytes decreased. Whole transcriptome analysis in early/active cases (but not in late/inactive stages) revealed 'T cell immunity' and 'Regulation of immune processes' as the largest overrepresented clusters. To a lesser extent, pathways associated with B cells and neuronal degeneration also showed increased representation. Surgically treated patients with GAD-TLE go through an early active inflammatory, 'encephalitic' stage (≤6 years) with CTL-mediated, antigen-driven neuronal loss and antibody-producing plasma cells but without signs of complement-mediated cell death. Subsequently, patients enter an apparently immunologically inactive or low-active stage with ongoing seizures, probably caused by the structural damage to the temporal lobe. 'Limbic encephalitis' with GAD antibodies should be subsumed under GAD-TLE. The early tissue damage explains why immunotherapy does not usually lead to freedom from seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna R Tröscher
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurology I, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Katharina M Mair
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laia Verdú de Juan
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Köck
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anja Steinmaurer
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Albert Becker
- Section for Translational Epilepsy Research Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ingmar Blümcke
- Department of Neuropathology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Christian Geis
- Section Translational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Romana Höftberger
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Mawrin
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tim J von Oertzen
- Department of Neurology I, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Julika Pitsch
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rainer Surges
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Berthold Voges
- Hamburg Epilepsy Centre, Protestant Hospital Alsterdorf, Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Serge Weis
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, Neuromed Campus, Kepler University Hospital Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Michael Winklehner
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Friedrich Woermann
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Epilepsy Centre Bodensee, Ravensburg, Germany
| | - Jan Bauer
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Centre for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian G Bien
- Department of Epileptology (Krankenhaus Mara), Medical School, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Tyvaert L. How autoimmunity changed our diagnostic practice in epileptology? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2023; 179:316-329. [PMID: 36804011 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Since few years, a new etiology of epilepsy emerges with the labelling of new autoantibodies against the central nervous system. In 2017, the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) concluded that autoimmunity is one of six etiologies contributing to epilepsy and that autoimmune epilepsy is directly caused by immune disorders in which seizures constitute a core symptom. Epileptic disorders of immune origin are now distinguished in two different entities: acute symptomatic seizures secondary to autoimmune (ASS) and autoimmune-associated epilepsy (AAE) with different expected clinical outcome under immunotherapy. If acute encephalitis is usually related to ASS with a classic good control of the disease under immunotherapy, clinical phenotype characterized by isolated seizures (new onset seizures and chronic focal epilepsy patients) may be due to either ASS or to AAE. Decision of Abs testing and early immunotherapy initiation needs the development of clinical scores able to select patients with high risk of positive Abs testings. If this selection is now included in the usual medical care of encephalitic patients, specifically with NORSE, the actual bigger challenge is in patients with non or only mild encephalitic symptoms followed for new onset seizures or chronic focal epilepsy patients of unknown origin. The emergence of this new entity provides new therapeutic strategies with specific etiologic and probably anti epileptogenic medication rather than the usual and nonspecific ASM. In the world of the epileptology, this new autoimmune entity appears as a big challenge with an exciting chance to improve or even definitely cure patients of their epilepsy. However, the detection of these patients has to be done in the early phase of the disease to offer the best outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tyvaert
- Department of neurology, hospital central, CHRU Nancy, Nancy, France; UMR 7039 CRAN, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France.
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Flammer J, Neziraj T, Rüegg S, Pröbstel AK. Immune Mechanisms in Epileptogenesis: Update on Diagnosis and Treatment of Autoimmune Epilepsy Syndromes. Drugs 2023; 83:135-158. [PMID: 36696027 PMCID: PMC9875200 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01826-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Seizures and epilepsy can result from various aetiologies, yet the underlying cause of several epileptic syndromes remains unclear. In that regard, autoimmune-mediated pathophysiological mechanisms have been gaining attention in the past years and were included as one of the six aetiologies of seizures in the most recent classification of the International League Against Epilepsy. The increasing number of anti-neuronal antibodies identified in patients with encephalitic disorders has contributed to the establishment of an immune-mediated pathophysiology in many cases of unclear aetiology of epileptic syndromes. Yet only a small number of patients with autoimmune encephalitis develop epilepsy in the proper sense where the brain transforms into a state where it will acquire the enduring propensity to produce seizures if it is not hindered by interventions. Hence, the term autoimmune epilepsy is often wrongfully used in the context of autoimmune encephalitis since most of the seizures are acute encephalitis-associated and will abate as soon as the encephalitis is in remission. Given the overlapping clinical presentation of immune-mediated seizures originating from different aetiologies, a clear distinction among the aetiological entities is crucial when it comes to discussing pathophysiological mechanisms, therapeutic options, and long-term prognosis of patients. Moreover, a rapid and accurate identification of patients with immune-mediated epilepsy syndromes is required to ensure an early targeted treatment and, thereby, improve clinical outcome. In this article, we review our current understanding of pathogenesis and critically discuss current and potential novel treatment options for seizures and epilepsy syndromes of underlying or suspected immune-mediated origin. We further outline the challenges in proper terminology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Flammer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.,Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel (RC2NB), University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tradite Neziraj
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.,Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel (RC2NB), University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Rüegg
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Anne-Katrin Pröbstel
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland. .,Departments of Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland. .,Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel (RC2NB), University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Dalakas MC. Stiff-person Syndrome and GAD Antibody-spectrum Disorders: GABAergic Neuronal Excitability, Immunopathogenesis and Update on Antibody Therapies. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:832-847. [PMID: 35084720 PMCID: PMC9294130 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01188-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although antibodies against Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) were originally associated with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), they now denote the "GAD antibody-spectrum disorders (GAD-SD)" that include Cerebellar Ataxia, Autoimmune Epilepsy, Limbic Encephalitis, PERM and eye movement disorder. In spite of the unique clinical phenotype that each of these disorders has, there is significant overlapping symptomatology characterized by autoimmune neuronal excitability. In addition to GAD, three other autoantibodies, against glycine receptors, amphiphysin and gephyrin, are less frequently or rarely associated with SPS-SD. Very high serum anti-GAD antibody titers are a key diagnostic feature for all GAD-SD, commonly associated with the presence of GAD antibodies in the CSF, a reduced CSF GABA level and increased anti-GAD-specific IgG intrathecal synthesis denoting stimulation of B-cell clones in the CNS. Because anti-GAD antibodies from the various hyperexcitability syndromes recognize the same dominant GAD epitope, the clinical heterogeneity among GAD-SD patients remains unexplained. The paper highlights the biologic basis of autoimmune hyperexcitability connected with the phenomenon of reciprocal inhibition as the fundamental mechanism of the patients' muscle stiffness and spasms; addresses the importance of high-GAD antibody titers in diagnosis, pinpointing the diagnostic challenges in patients with low-GAD titers or their distinction from functional disorders; and discusses whether high GAD-antibodies are disease markers or pathogenic in the context of their association with reduced GABA level in the brain and CSF. Finally, it focuses on therapies providing details on symptomatic GABA-enhancing drugs and the currently available immunotherapies in a step-by-step approach. The prospects of future immunotherapeutic options with antibody therapies are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinos C Dalakas
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Neuroimmunology Unit National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.
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Gillinder L, Britton J. Autoimmune-Associated Seizures. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2022; 28:363-398. [PMID: 35393963 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article focuses on the seizure manifestations and presentations of autoimmune-associated epilepsy and acute symptomatic seizures in autoimmune encephalitis. It discusses the specificity of the various central nervous system autoantibodies and clarifies when their presence can be considered indicative of an immune etiology. Finally, current recommendations regarding patient selection for autoimmune antibody evaluation are reviewed, and an approach to immunotherapy is provided. RECENT FINDINGS Although autoimmune seizures are caused by a heterogeneous group of autoantibodies, key features reported in the literature should alert clinicians to the possible diagnosis. In particular, seizure characteristics including frequency, timing, duration, and symptomatology can provide vital clues to help differentiate autoimmune-associated seizures from other causes of epilepsy. Diagnostic certainty also requires an understanding and integration of the spectrum of clinical and paraclinical presentations, and several scoring systems have been developed that may be useful to aid the identification of autoimmune seizures. SUMMARY Seizures due to autoimmune etiology are increasingly encountered in clinical practice. It is critical that clinicians recognize immune seizure etiologies early in their course given they are often responsive to immunotherapy but are usually resistant to antiseizure medications. Currently, however, it is unfortunately not uncommon for autoimmune-associated seizure disorders to remain undiagnosed, resulting in missed opportunities to administer effective therapies. Efforts to better understand autoimmune seizure manifestations and treatment strategies are ongoing.
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Bilaterality of temporal EEG findings in limbic encephalitis compared to other mesiotemporal epilepsies – a retrospective cohort study. Seizure 2022; 96:98-101. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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11
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Dziadkowiak E, Moreira H, Buska-Mach K, Szmyrka M, Budrewicz S, Barg E, Janik M, Pokryszko-Dragan A. Occult Autoimmune Background for Epilepsy-The Preliminary Study on Antibodies Against Neuronal Surface Antigens. Front Neurol 2021; 12:660126. [PMID: 34744955 PMCID: PMC8567837 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.660126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the incidence of antibodies against neuronal surface antigens (NSA-ab) in patients with different types of epilepsy, in comparison with the subjects diagnosed with immune-mediated disorders. Methods: Forty patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) of unknown origin, 16 with post-stroke epilepsy, and 23 with systemic autoimmune disorders (SAD) with CNS involvement were included. NSA-ab were sought in serum using indirect immunofluorescence method. Relationships were analyzed between presence of NSA-ab and clinical presentation. Results: NSA-ab was detected in the sera from five patients: anti-DPPX in one patient, anti-AMPAR1/R2 in two, anti-LGI1 in one and, in one case, both anti-CASPR2 and DPPX IgG. Out of these five patients, three represented the SAD subgroup and two the DRE subgroup. None of the patients with post-stroke epilepsy was positive for NSA-ab. Significance: Autoimmune etiology is worth considering in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy of unknown origin. The presence of NSA-ab in patients with systemic autoimmune disorders may be caused by unspecifically enhanced autoimmune reactivity. NSA-ab seem not to be related to epilepsy resulting from ischemic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Dziadkowiak
- Department of Neurology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Helena Moreira
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Magdalena Szmyrka
- Department of Rheumatology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Ewa Barg
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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Steriade C, Gillinder L, Rickett K, Hartel G, Higdon L, Britton J, French J. Discerning the Role of Autoimmunity and Autoantibodies in Epilepsy: A Review. JAMA Neurol 2021; 78:1383-1390. [PMID: 34515743 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2021.3113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Importance The literature on neural autoantibody positivity in epilepsy has expanded over the last decade, with an increased interest among clinicians in identifying potentially treatable causes of otherwise refractory seizures. Observations Prior studies have reported a wide range of neural autoantibody positivity rates among various epilepsy populations, with the highest frequency reported in individuals with focal epilepsy of unknown cause and new-onset seizures. The antibodies in some cases are of uncertain significance, and their presence can cause conundrums regarding therapy. Conclusions and Relevance There is likely some role for neural autoantibody assessment in patients with unexplained epilepsy who lack clear evidence of autoimmune encephalitis, but the clinical implications of such testing remain unclear owing to limitations in previous published studies. A framework for study design to bridge the current gaps in knowledge on autoimmune-associated epilepsy is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Steriade
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York University, New York
| | - Lisa Gillinder
- Mater Advanced Epilepsy Unit, Brisbane, Australia.,The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Gunter Hartel
- Department of Statistics, QIMR Berghofer Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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Steriade C. The Search for Autoimmune-Associated Epilepsy Continues-Are We Getting Closer to Our Target? Epilepsy Curr 2021; 21:255-257. [PMID: 34690560 PMCID: PMC8512914 DOI: 10.1177/15357597211010816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical Features Which Predict Neuronal Surface Autoantibodies in New-Onset
Focal Epilepsy: Implications for Immunotherapies McGinty RN, Handel A, Moloney T, et al. J Neurol Neurosurg
Psychiatry. 2020;92(3):291-294. doi:10.1136/jnnp-2020-325011 Objective: To generate a score which clinically identifies surface-directed autoantibodies in
adults with new-onset focal epilepsy and evaluate the value of immunotherapy in this
clinical setting. Methods: Prospective clinical and autoantibody evaluations in a cohort of 219 consecutive
patients with new-onset focal epilepsy. Results: A total of 10.5% (23/219) of people with new-onset focal epilepsy had detectable
serum autoantibodies to known or novel cell surface antigenic targets. Nine of 23
with autoantibodies were diagnosed with encephalitis, by contrast to 0/196 without
autoantibodies (P < .0001). Multivariate analysis identified 6
features which predicted autoantibody positivity (area under the curve = 0.83): age
≥54 years, ictal piloerection, lowered self-reported mood, reduced attention,
magnetic resonance imaging limbic system changes, and the absence of conventional
epilepsy risk factors. Eleven (79%) of 14 patients with detectable autoantibodies,
but without encephalitis, showed excellent long-term outcomes (modified Rankin Score
= 0) despite no immunotherapy. These outcomes were superior to those of
immunotherapy-treated patients with confirmed autoantibody-mediated encephalitis
(P < .05). Conclusions: Seizure semiology, cognitive and mood phenotypes, alongside inflammatory
investigation findings, aid the identification of surface autoantibodies among
unselected people with new-onset focal epilepsy. The excellent
immunotherapy-independent outcomes of autoantibody-positive patients without
encephalitis suggest immunotherapy administration should be guided by clinical
features of encephalitis, rather than autoantibody positivity. Our findings suggest
that, in this cohort, immunotherapy-responsive seizure syndromes with autoantibodies
largely fall under the umbrella of autoimmune encephalitis. Antibodies Contributing to Focal Epilepsy Signs and Symptoms Score. de Bruijn M, Bastiaansen AEM, Mojzisova H, et al. Ann Neurol.
2021;89(4):698-710. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/ana.26013. Objective: Diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is difficult in patients with less
fulminant diseases such as epilepsy. However, recognition is important, as patients
require immunotherapy. This study aims to identify antibodies in patients with focal
epilepsy of unknown etiology and to create a score to preselect patients requiring
testing. Methods: In this prospective, multicenter cohort study, adults with focal epilepsy of
unknown etiology, without recognized AIE, were included, between December 2014 and
December 2017, and followed for 1 year. Serum, and if available cerebrospinal fluid,
were analyzed using different laboratory techniques. The ACES score was created
using factors favoring an autoimmune etiology of seizures (AES), as determined by
multivariate logistic regression. The model was externally validated and evaluated
using the Concordance (C) statistic. Results: We included 582 patients, with median epilepsy duration of 8 years (interquartile
range = 2-18). Twenty (3.4%) patients had AES, of whom 3 had anti-leucine-rich
glioma inactivated 1, 3 had anti-contactin-associated protein-like 2, 1 had
anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, and 13 had
antiglutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay concentrations
>10 000 IU/mL). Risk factors for AES were temporal magnetic resonance imaging
hyperintensities (odds ratio [OR] = 255.3, 95% CI = 19.6-3332.2, P
< .0001), autoimmune diseases (OR = 13.31, 95% CI = 3.1-56.6, P
= .0005), behavioral changes (OR = 12.3, 95% CI = 3.2-49.9, P =
.0003), autonomic symptoms (OR = 13.3, 95% CI = 3.1-56.6, P =
.0005), cognitive symptoms (OR = 30.6, 95% CI = 2.4-382.7, P =
.009), and speech problems (OR = 9.6, 95% CI = 2.0-46.7, P = .005).
The internally validated C-statistic was 0.95 and 0.92 in the validation cohort (n =
128). Assigning each factor 1 point, an antibodies contributing to focal epilepsy
signs and symptoms (ACES) score ≥2 had a sensitivity of 100% to detect AES, and a
specificity of 84.9%. Interpretation: Specific signs point toward AES in focal epilepsy of unknown etiology. The ACES
score (cutoff ≥ 2) is useful to select patients requiring antibody testing.
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Ismail FS, Spatola M, Woermann FG, Popkirov S, Jungilligens J, Bien CG, Wellmer J, Schlegel U. Diagnostic challenges in patients with temporal lobe seizures and features of autoimmune limbic encephalitis. Eur J Neurol 2021; 29:1303-1310. [PMID: 34288284 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Consensus criteria for autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE) allow for a diagnosis even without neuronal antibodies (Abs), but it remains unclear which clinical features should prompt neuronal Ab screening in temporal lobe epilepsy patients. The aim of the study was to investigate whether patients with temporal lobe seizures associated with additional symptoms or signs of limbic involvement may harbor neuronal Abs, and which clinical features should prompt neuronal Ab screening in these patients. METHODS We identified 47 patients from a tertiary epilepsy center with mediotemporal lobe seizures and additional features suggestive of limbic involvement, including either memory deficits, psychiatric symptoms, mediotemporal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) hyperintensities or inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Neuronal Ab testing was carried out at two independent reference laboratories (Bielefeld-Bethel, Germany, and Barcelona, Spain). All brain MRI scans were assessed by two reviewers independently. RESULTS Temporal lobe seizures were accompanied by memory deficits in 35/46 (76%), psychiatric symptoms in 27/42 (64%), and both in 19/42 patients (45%). Limbic T2/fluid-attenuated inversion recovery signal hyperintensities were found in 26/46 patients (57%; unilateral: n = 22, bilateral: n = 4). Standard CSF studies were abnormal in 2/37 patients (5%). Neuronal Abs were confirmed in serum and/or CSF in 8/47 patients (17%) and were directed against neuronal cell-surface targets (leucine-rich glioma inactivated protein 1: n = 1, contactin-associated protein-2: n = 1, undetermined target: n = 3) or glutamic acid decarboxylase in its 65-kD isoform (n = 3, all with high titers). Compared to Ab-negative patients, those who harbored neuronal Abs were more likely to have uni- or bilateral mediotemporal MRI changes (8/8, 100% vs. 18/38, 47%; p = 0.01, Fisher's exact test). CONCLUSIONS In patients with temporal lobe seizures and additional limbic signs, 17% had neuronal Abs affirming ALE diagnosis. Mediotemporal MRI changes were found in all Ab-positive cases and had a positive likelihood ratio of 2.11 (95% confidence interval 1.51-2.95).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatme Seval Ismail
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marianna Spatola
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Friedrich G Woermann
- Department of Epileptology (Krankenhaus Mara), Medical School, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Stoyan Popkirov
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johannes Jungilligens
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany.,Department of Neuropsychology, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christian G Bien
- Department of Epileptology (Krankenhaus Mara), Medical School, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany.,Laboratory Krone, Bad Salzuflen, Germany
| | - Jörg Wellmer
- Ruhr-Epileptology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Uwe Schlegel
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Chen L, Zhu L, Lu D, Dai S, Han Y, Wu Z, Xu P, Chang L, Wu Q. Association between autoimmune encephalitis and epilepsy: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Seizure 2021; 91:346-359. [PMID: 34284303 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diverse neuronal antibodies are related to autoimmune encephalitis (AE) and AE-related epilepsy. However, the epidemiological characteristics of AE, AE-associated antibodies, and AE-related seizures are still unclear. AIMS This research evaluated the relationship between AE, AE-related seizures, and neuronal antibodies, as well as the morbidity of AE with early incidence. METHODS The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched. Pooled estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS Of the 4,869 citations identified, 100 articles were reviewed in full, and 42 subgroups were analyzed. The overall incidence of AE patients with seizures was 42% (95% CI: 0.40-0.44), and among them, the incidence of epilepsy in anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis patients was 73% (95% CI: 0.70-0.77). Subsequently, we found that the prevalence of AE as the cause of epilepsy within the pooled period was 1% (95% CI: 0.01-0.02), while the overall positive rate of neuronal antibodies in epilepsy patients was 4% (95% CI: 0.03-0.05). Additionally, the detection rates of different antibodies among epilepsy patients were as follows: anti-NMDAR, 1%; anti-leucine-rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1), 1%; anti-contactin-associated protein-like 2 (CASPR2), 2%. CONCLUSION Based on our findings, neuronal antibodies may serve as a bridge to study AE and immune-related epilepsy. To further understand the differences in outcomes following different treatment measures, and to provide more information for public health policy and prevention, more research is needed to improve the accuracy of estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Chen
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Di Lu
- Biomedicine Engineering Research Centre, Kunming Medical University, 1168 Chun Rong West Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Shujuan Dai
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Yanbing Han
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Zhe Wu
- Department of Psychology, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, 157 Jin Bi Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650100, PR China
| | - Puying Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Lvhua Chang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, 295 Xi Chang Road, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, PR China.
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Langenbruch L, Wiendl H, Groß C, Kovac S. Diagnostic utility of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings in seizures and epilepsy with and without autoimmune-associated disease. Seizure 2021; 91:233-243. [PMID: 34233238 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with seizures and epilepsy routinely undergo multiple diagnostic tests, which may include cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. This review aims to outline different CSF parameters and their alterations in seizures or epilepsy. We then discuss the utility of CSF analysis in seizure patients in different clinical settings in depth. Some routine CSF parameters are frequently altered after seizures, but are not specific such as CSF protein and lactate. Pleocytosis and CSF specific oligoclonal bands are rare and should be considered as signs of infectious or immune mediated seizures and epilepsy. Markers of neuronal damage show conflicting results, and are as yet not established in clinical practice. Parameters of neuronal degeneration and more specific immune parameters are less well studied, and are areas of further research. CSF analysis in new-onset seizures or status epilepticus serves well in the differential diagnosis of seizure etiology. Here, considerations should include autoimmune-associated seizures. CSF findings in these disorders are a special focus of this review and are summarized in a comprehensive overview. Until now, CSF analysis has not yielded clinically helpful biomarkers for refractory epilepsy or for assessment of neuronal damage which is a subject of further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Langenbruch
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Germany; Department of Neurology, Klinikum Osnabrück, Am Finkenhügel 1, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany.
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Catharina Groß
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Stjepana Kovac
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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Mongay-Ochoa N, Sala-Padró J, Reynés-Llompart G, Rodríguez-Bel L, Jaraba S, Morandeira F, Falip M. Brain FDG-PET findings in glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody-associated epilepsy. J Neuroimaging 2021; 31:869-873. [PMID: 33955107 DOI: 10.1111/jon.12874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GAD-Ab) are sometimes associated with chronic drug-resistant focal epilepsy. Clinically, it may manifest as mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE), with GAD-Ab patients difficult to distinguish. Therefore, the aim of this study is to compare brain metabolism of patients with mTLE and high serum titers of GAD-Ab (>2000 UI/ml) to those with mTLE and hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and confirmed GAD-ab negativity. METHODS Images from PET studies were normalized to an SPM 12 template. Voxel to voxel comparisons were made using a two-sample one-tailed t-test. RESULTS In both patients with GAD-Ab and controls (mTLE-HS), hypometabolism in mesial temporal lobe areas was observed. When comparing the two groups, GAD-Ab patients had statistically significant reduced metabolism in both insulae and medial inferior frontal-hypothalamus area (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Hypometabolism in mesial temporal lobe areas together with hypometabolism in insulae and medial inferior frontal-hypothalamus may be characteristic of patients with epilepsy and GAD-ab. This PET pattern could be a useful diagnostic tool to identify GAD-Ab patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neus Mongay-Ochoa
- Epilepsy Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jacint Sala-Padró
- Epilepsy Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gabriel Reynés-Llompart
- Medical Physics Department, Institut Català d'Oncolgia, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,PET Unit, Nuclear Medicine Department, IDI, Hospital U. de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Rodríguez-Bel
- PET Unit, Nuclear Medicine Department, IDI, Hospital U. de Bellvitge-IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Jaraba
- Epilepsy Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Morandeira
- Laboratory, Immunology Department, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Falip
- Epilepsy Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
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Tsiortou P, Alexopoulos H, Dalakas MC. GAD antibody-spectrum disorders: progress in clinical phenotypes, immunopathogenesis and therapeutic interventions. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2021; 14:17562864211003486. [PMID: 33854562 PMCID: PMC8013924 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211003486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), originally linked to stiff person syndrome (SPS), now denote the "GAD antibody-spectrum disorders" (GAD-SD) that also include autoimmune epilepsy, limbic encephalitis, cerebellar ataxia and nystagmus with overlapping symptomatology highlighting autoimmune neuronal excitability disorders. The reasons for the clinical heterogeneity among GAD-antibody associated syndromes remain still unsettled, implicating variable susceptibility of GABAergic neurons to anti-GAD or other still unidentified autoantibodies. Although anti-GAD antibody titers do not correlate with clinical severity, very high serum titers, often associated with intrathecal synthesis of anti-GAD-specific IgG, point to in-situ effects of GAD or related autoantibodies within the central nervous system. It remains, however, uncertain what drives these antibodies, why they persist and whether they are disease markers or have pathogenic potential. The review, focused on these concerns, describes the widened clinical manifestations and overlapping features of all GAD-SD; addresses the importance of GAD antibody titers and potential significance of GAD epitopes; summarizes the biologic basis of autoimmune hyperexcitability; highlights the electrophysiological basis of reciprocal inhibition in muscle stiffness; and provides practical guidelines on symptomatic therapies with gamma-aminobutyric acid-enhancing drugs or various immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Popianna Tsiortou
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Harry Alexopoulos
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marinos C Dalakas
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Neuroimmunology Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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de Bruijn MAAM, Bastiaansen AEM, Mojzisova H, van Sonderen A, Thijs RD, Majoie MJM, Rouhl RPW, van Coevorden-Hameete MH, de Vries JM, Muñoz Lopetegi A, Roozenbeek B, Schreurs MWJ, Sillevis Smitt PAE, Titulaer MJ. Antibodies Contributing to Focal Epilepsy Signs and Symptoms Score. Ann Neurol 2021; 89:698-710. [PMID: 33427313 PMCID: PMC8048471 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective Diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is difficult in patients with less fulminant diseases such as epilepsy. However, recognition is important, as patients require immunotherapy. This study aims to identify antibodies in patients with focal epilepsy of unknown etiology, and to create a score to preselect patients requiring testing. Methods In this prospective, multicenter cohort study, adults with focal epilepsy of unknown etiology, without recognized AIE, were included, between December 2014 and December 2017, and followed for 1 year. Serum, and if available cerebrospinal fluid, were analyzed using different laboratory techniques. The ACES score was created using factors favoring an autoimmune etiology of seizures (AES), as determined by multivariate logistic regression. The model was externally validated and evaluated using the Concordance (C) statistic. Results We included 582 patients, with median epilepsy duration of 8 years (interquartile range = 2–18). Twenty patients (3.4%) had AES, of whom 3 had anti–leucine‐rich glioma inactivated 1, 3 had anti–contactin‐associated protein‐like 2, 1 had anti–N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor, and 13 had anti–glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay concentrations >10,000IU/ml). Risk factors for AES were temporal magnetic resonance imaging hyperintensities (odds ratio [OR] = 255.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 19.6–3332.2, p < 0.0001), autoimmune diseases (OR = 13.31, 95% CI = 3.1–56.6, p = 0.0005), behavioral changes (OR 12.3, 95% CI = 3.2–49.9, p = 0.0003), autonomic symptoms (OR = 13.3, 95% CI = 3.1–56.6, p = 0.0005), cognitive symptoms (OR = 30.6, 95% CI = 2.4–382.7, p = 0.009), and speech problems (OR = 9.6, 95% CI = 2.0–46.7, p = 0.005). The internally validated C statistic was 0.95, and 0.92 in the validation cohort (n = 128). Assigning each factor 1 point, an antibodies contributing to focal epilepsy signs and symptoms (ACES) score ≥ 2 had a sensitivity of 100% to detect AES, and a specificity of 84.9%. Interpretation Specific signs point toward AES in focal epilepsy of unknown etiology. The ACES score (cutoff ≥ 2) is useful to select patients requiring antibody testing. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:698–710
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna E M Bastiaansen
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hana Mojzisova
- Department of Neurology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Agnes van Sonderen
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roland D Thijs
- Department of Neurology, Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marian J M Majoie
- Department of Neurology, Academic Center for Epileptology, Epilepsy Center Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, the Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, School of Health Professions Education, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rob P W Rouhl
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Juna M de Vries
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Bob Roozenbeek
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marco W J Schreurs
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Maarten J Titulaer
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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20
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Bien CG. Neural autoantibodies and autoimmune encephalitis – the conjunction of both counts. Eur J Neurol 2020; 27:1803-1804. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.14379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. G. Bien
- Epilepsy Centre Bethel Krankenhaus Mara Bielefeld Germany
- Laboratory Krone Bad Salzuflen Germany
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21
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Seizures and epilepsy of autoimmune origin: A long-term prospective study. Seizure 2020; 81:157-165. [PMID: 32818871 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To follow prospectively a group of patients with seizures or epilepsy and suggestive clinical features of autoimmune aetiology and find out how many are finally diagnosed with acute symptomatic seizures (ASS) secondary to autoimmune encephalitis or autoimmune-related epilepsy, and how many develop epilepsy. METHODS Consecutive patients meeting the inclusion criteria from 2010 to 2018 were identified. Patients were classified as confirmed, probable autoimmune, non-autoimmune, or unknown. RESULTS One-hundred and nine patients were included, 64 (48.7 %) women, mean age 55.2 years (SD 17.9). ASS were reported by 61 patients (56 %), while 48 presented epilepsy (44 %). During follow-up 18 patients died (16.5 %). Final diagnosis was autoimmune-relatedepilepsy (confirmed + probable) in 22 cases and ASS secondary to autoimmune encephalitis (confirmed or probable) in 27, non-autoimmune aetiologies or other diagnosis in 49 (44 %), and unknown aetiology in 11 (10.2 %). Neuronal antibodies (ab) were found in 27 patients (24.7 %). T-lymphocyte infiltration in temporal lobes was observed in 2/8 patients (20 %). Neuronal ab were more frequent in the autoimmune groups: 17 patients (29.8 %) vs 1(2.3 %), p:0.001, and they suffered more autoimmune diseases: 37 (75.5 %) vs 12 (24.48 %), p:0.0001, and 34 (69 %) vs 22 (44.9 %) p:0.027, respectively. All patients with GAD ab 17/17 (100 %) evolved to chronic disease. Four patients (29 %) with ASS secondary to autoimmune encephalitis developed epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE ASS secondary to autoimmune encephalitis or autoimmune-related epilepsy will be diagnosed in nearly half of patients who have been suspected of it. The only diagnostic clue is neuronal ab. Patients who have suffered ASS secondary to autoimmune encephalitis may develop epilepsy over time.
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22
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Zelano J, Axelsson M, Constantinescu R, Malmeström C, Kumlien E. Neuronal antibodies in adult patients with new-onset seizures: A prospective study. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01442. [PMID: 31588654 PMCID: PMC6851805 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Immunotherapy in addition to antiepileptic drugs can improve seizure freedom rates in autoimmune epilepsy, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis. A diagnosis of autoimmune epilepsy can be supported by presence of serum antibodies to neuronal antigens. We asked how often neuronal antibodies are found in the serum of unselected adult patients with new-onset seizures and whether such testing could improve detection of autoimmune epilepsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS We included 44 patients over the age of 25 presenting after at least one unprovoked seizure to the Neurology Clinic at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. The median time between the first-ever seizure in life and the serum sampling was 50 days (range 22-11,000). Antibody testing in serum was performed according to the manufacturer's instructions. The patients were followed for at least 1 year. RESULTS Epilepsy could be diagnosed already at the first visit in 21/44 patients (47.7%). Two patients (4.5%) were positive for neuronal antibodies: one against contactin-associated protein 2 (CASPR-2) and one against glutamate acid decarboxylase (GAD). Three patients (6.7%) displayed very weak immunoreactivity that was deemed clinically insignificant. One of the antibody-positive patients had only a single seizure. The other had a focal cortical dysplasia and was seizure-free on levetiracetam. None of the five patients with antibodies or immunoreactivity displayed any feature of autoimmune epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that indiscriminate testing in patients presenting to a first seizure clinic with new-onset seizures or epilepsy is unlikely to improve detection of autoimmune epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Zelano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Markus Axelsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Radu Constantinescu
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Clas Malmeström
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Laboratory for Clinical immunology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Kumlien
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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23
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Relevance of Surface Neuronal Protein Autoantibodies as Biomarkers in Seizure-Associated Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184529. [PMID: 31540204 PMCID: PMC6769659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The detection of neuronal surface protein autoantibody-related disorders has contributed to several changes in our understanding of central nervous system autoimmunity. The clinical presentation of these disorders may be associated (or not) with tumors, and often patients develop an inexplicable onset of epilepsy, catatonic or autistic features, or memory and cognitive dysfunctions. The autoantigens in such cases have critical roles in synaptic transmission and plasticity, memory function, and process learning. For months, patients with such antibodies may be comatose or encephalopathic and yet completely recover with palliative care and immunotherapies. This paper reviews several targets of neuronal antibodies as biomarkers in seizure disorders, focusing mainly on autoantibodies, which target the extracellular domains of membrane proteins, namely leucine-rich glioma-inactivated-1 (LGI1), contactin-associated protein-like 2 (CASPR2), the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), γ-aminobutyric acid receptor-B (GABABR), the glycine receptor (GlyR), and a-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs). In order to restore health status, limit hospitalization, and optimize results, testing these antibodies should be done locally, using internationally certified procedures for a precise and rapid diagnosis, with the possibility of initiating therapy as soon as possible.
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24
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Lucchese G. Herpesviruses, autoimmunity and epilepsy: Peptide sharing and potential cross-reactivity with human synaptic proteins. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102367. [PMID: 31404705 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aggregation of immuno-proteomic data reveals that i) herpesviruses and synaptic proteins -in particular Synapsin-1 and Bassoon - share a large number of hexapeptides that also recur in hundreds of epitopes experimentally validated as immunopositive in the human host, and ii) the shared peptides are also spread among human epilepsy-related proteins. The data indicate that cross-reactive processes may be associated with pathogenetic mechanisms in epilepsy, thus suggesting a role of autoimmunity in etiopathology of epilepsies after herpesvirus-infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Lucchese
- University of Greifswald, Department of Neurology, Ferdinand-Sauerbruch-Straße, Greifswald 17495, Germany; Goldsmiths, University of London, Department of Computing, Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom.
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25
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El-Abassi R, Soliman MY, Villemarette-Pittman N, England JD. SPS: Understanding the complexity. J Neurol Sci 2019; 404:137-149. [PMID: 31377632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stiff-person syndrome (SPS), first described in 1956 by Moersch and Woltman, is a progressive autoimmune disorder with core features of chronic fluctuating progressive truncal and limb rigidity and painful muscle spasms leading to gait difficulties, falls and an appearance that resembles tin soldiers. The syndrome is a rare, highly disabling disorder of the central nervous and frequently results in significant disability. Understanding of the etiology, clinical spectrum, diagnostic workup and therapeutic modalities for this painful and disabling disorder has vastly evolved over the past few years with more confidence in classifying and treating the patients. The purpose of this review is to increase the awareness, early detection, and treatment of this disabling disease. METHOD PubMed was searched, all date inclusive, using the following phrases: stiff person syndrome,anti-Glutamic acid decarboxylase (Anti-GAD) antibody syndrome, Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM), and Paraneoplastic Stiff Person syndrome. No filters or restrictions were used. A total of 888 articles were identified. RESULTS The results were narrowed to 190 citations after excluding non-English and duplicate reports. Clinical presentation, laboratory testing, treatment, and prognosis were categorized and summarized. DISCUSSION In this article we will discuss the epidemiology, presentation and classification. Explain the pathophysiology of SPS and the autoimmune mechanisms involved. Discuss the diagnostic approach and treatments available, as well as, the prognosis and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima El-Abassi
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA.
| | - Michael Y Soliman
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA
| | | | - John D England
- Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University School of medicine, New Orleans, USA
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Baizabal-Carvallo JF. The neurological syndromes associated with glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies. J Autoimmun 2019; 101:35-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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