Autoimmune neurological disorders represent a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by immune-mediated damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for timely initiation of immunomodulatory therapy and prevention of irreversible neurological deficits. Laboratory diagnostics plays a pivotal role in confirming autoimmune etiology, identifying disease-specific biomarkers, and monitoring disease activity. This article reviews current laboratory approaches used in the diagnosis of autoimmune neurological disorders, including autoantibody detection, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, molecular and immunological assays. Advances in laboratory technologies have significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and contributed to personalized patient management.

Autoimmune neurological disorders, laboratory diagnostics, autoantibodies, cerebrospinal fluid, immunological assays

Dalmau J, Graus F. Antibody-mediated encephalitis. N Engl J Med. 2018;378:840–851.

Vincent A, et al. Autoimmune neurology: New antibodies and mechanisms. Lancet Neurol. 2017;16:447–458.

Dalakas MC. Autoimmune neurological disorders. N Engl J Med. 2020;383:244–256.

Wingerchuk DM, et al. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Lancet Neurol. 2015;14:174–189.

Link H, Huang YM. Oligoclonal bands in multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol. 2006;180:17–28.

Lennon VA, et al. AQP4 antibodies in neuromyelitis optica. Lancet. 2004;364:2106–2112.

Bradshaw MJ, Linnoila JJ. An overview of autoimmune encephalitis. Semin Neurol. 2018;38:330–343.

Graus F, et al. A clinical approach to diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. Lancet Neurol. 2016;15:391–404.

McKeon A. Autoimmune neurological disorders: Clinical and laboratory features. Continuum. 2016;22:1310–1335.