Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid Type A (GABA-A) Receptor Antibody, Cell-Binding Assay, Spinal Fluid
Use
Gamma-amino butyric acid type A (GABA-A) receptor autoantibodies are highly predictive of GABA-A receptor autoimmune encephalitis. This condition is characterized by clinical-radiologic presentations including frequent seizures and multifocal lesions in the white matter. The majority of patients are treatable with immunotherapy. This test is useful for evaluating patients with suspected autoimmune encephalitis and autoimmune epilepsy using spinal fluid specimens.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Neurology Specialty Testing Client Test Request (T732) with the specimen. Specimen stability is crucial, with refrigeration being preferred up to 28 days. Ensure the sterile vial is used for collection, preferably vial number 1, with a minimum volume of 0.4 mL required for testing.
Limitations
Negative results do not exclude the diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. Only 2% of autoimmune encephalitis cases are associated with autoantibodies against gamma-amino butyric acid type A receptor. It is important to consider other clinical investigations as negative serology may occur. Specimens with gross hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus will be rejected, affecting test validity.
New York Approved
Methodology
Cell-based / Cytometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 103715-9
- 103715-9
Result Turnaround Time
5-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Sterile vial
Collection Instructions
Preferred: Collection vial number 1; Acceptable: Any collection vial
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |