Neuropsychiatric Symptoms

Autoimmune dysfunction can mimic mental disorders

Common infections can trigger an autoimmune attack on the brain, disrupting normal neuronal cell signaling or functioning and cause inflammation in the basal ganglia region of the brain. This autoimmune response can result in the onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms.

NEUROPSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS THAT MAY BE CAUSED BY AN AUTOIMMUNE REACTION

In some people, common infections can trigger a condition known as autoimmune encephalitis (AE), in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the brain. This, in turn, can lead to inflammation in the brain and the onset of neurologic and/or psychiatric symptoms.
Basal ganglia encephalitis, a type of AE, can occur when an infection(s) triggers antibodies that target portions of the basal ganglia region of the brain, resulting in neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Infections may be “subclinical,” meaning they are not producing outward, physical symptoms. Yet, the infections can still trigger abnormal autoimmune activity and behavioral changes.
Obsessions and Compulsions
Motor and Vocal Tics
Attention Deficits and Hyperactivity
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
Seizures and Convulsions
Depression and Mood Changes
Chronic Fatigue
Cunningham Panel™ helps a physician determine whether symptoms may be due to an infection-triggered autoimmune response.
The Cunningham Panel™ is a tool that helps clinicians identify whether an autoimmune condition may be causing a patient’s neurologic and/or psychiatric symptoms. The Panel measures the level of several autoantibodies directed against specific brain targets. Elevated levels may indicate that an underlying infection-triggered autoimmune response may be causing a patient’s symptoms.
  • Test Order Process
    The Cunningham Panel™ – Antibody testing that helps determine whether an autoimmune response may be causing neurologic and/or psychiatric symptoms.