Austin Pathology

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Autoimmune Encephalitis (Blood)

Alternate Names
-
Test Code
NMDA, GABA, AMPA, VGKC
Testing Laboratory
Referred Laboratory
Specimen Type

Blood

Container Type

Serum tube (Red Cap w. Yellow Insert)

Container Image
Medicare Rebate

No - please complete Patient Financial Consent Form.pdf

Out of Pocket Costs

Please note: Some tests are not Medicare rebatable and patients may be charged. Please contact Pathology Queensland for current pricing (07 3646 5811)

Ordering Information

Ordering this test results in ordering all Autoimmune Encephalitis antibodies, which are NMDA, GABA, AMPA, VGKC antibodies.

For specific antibodies, please refer to the pages below: 

Note: This test is strongly advised to be performed on both CSF and serum to optimise sensitivity and specificity. Consider combining with Anti Neuronal Antibodies testing if indicated.

Collection Instructions

-

Transport Instructions
Transport ambient at room temperature
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated at 4°C
Testing Frequency
As Required
Min Test Volume
None
Add On Test Suitability
Refrigerated (2-4°C) up to 3 months*
Frozen (-20°C) up to 3 months*


*Subject to sample availability

Container ID
S, SP, SNG, CR, CRS
CSR Instructions

Centrifuge, aliquot, and freeze AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Instructions for: Regional Specimen Receptions

  • Forward sample to Heidelberg laboratory frozen in BioFreeze bottle. 

Instructions for: Heidelberg Specimen Reception

  • Place sample in frozen (-20°C) Sendout tub.
  • If a room temperature or 4°C sample is received, it can still be accepted. 
  • Create an aliquot for freezing.
  • If a room temperature or 4°C sample is received from a regional laboratory, ensure it is received from the frozen packing list.
Laboratory Instructions
None
External Laboratory
Immunology, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital
Accredited Test
Yes