What causes autoimmune encephalitis?
Jul 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Autoimmune encephalitis may be caused by factors such as genetic susceptibility, immune dysfunction, infection-induced immune responses, tumor-associated paraneoplastic syndromes, and abnormal production of autoantibodies. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is important to take measures to prevent infections, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding crowded places.
Autoimmune encephalitis may generally be caused by factors such as genetic susceptibility, immune dysfunction, infection-induced immune responses, tumor-related paraneoplastic syndromes, and abnormal production of autoantibodies. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the exact cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Genetic Susceptibility: Some individuals, due to specific genetic traits, may have immune systems prone to abnormal recognition, increasing disease risk. There may also be a family history of autoimmune diseases. No pre-emptive intervention is required; maintaining regular sleep patterns, a balanced diet, and enhancing immunity can help reduce the likelihood of disease onset.
2. Immune Dysfunction: Long-term stress, staying up late, and other factors can lead to immune imbalance, causing the immune system to attack the body's own brain tissue and trigger inflammation, often accompanied by psychiatric and behavioral abnormalities. It is important to adjust lifestyle habits, ensure sufficient sleep, relieve stress through exercise, meditation, etc., and use immune-regulating medications as necessary under medical supervision.
3. Infection-induced Immune Response: After viral or bacterial infections, the immune system may mistakenly attack brain tissue during activation, inducing inflammation that may manifest weeks after the initial infection. Prompt treatment during infection is necessary, using medications such as Acyclovir Tablets, Cefixime Dispersible Tablets, Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Capsules, etc., as directed by a physician to control the infection and reduce the risk of abnormal immune reactions.
4. Tumor-related Paraneoplastic Syndrome: Tumors such as ovarian teratoma and lung cancer can trigger the body to produce antibodies that attack brain tissue, leading to inflammation and accompanied by tumor-related symptoms. The primary tumor should be treated first—for example, ovarian teratoma can be removed via laparoscopic surgery. Postoperative treatment may include Methylprednisolone Tablets, Intravenous Immunoglobulin, Rituximab Injection, and other medications to suppress immune reactions, as directed by a physician.
5. Abnormal Autoantibody Production: The body produces autoantibodies such as anti-NMDAR antibodies, which specifically attack nerve cells, causing encephalitis, often accompanied by epilepsy and consciousness disorders. Patients should use Prednisone Acetate Tablets, Cyclophosphamide Tablets, Azathioprine Tablets, and other medications as directed by a physician to suppress antibody production, along with symptomatic and supportive treatments.
In daily life, it is important to prevent infections by washing hands frequently and avoiding crowded places. If symptoms such as cognitive impairment or epilepsy occur, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to avoid treatment delays.
