Autoimmune Epilepsy

The recognition of autoimmunity as an etiology for seizures and epilepsy has led to the development of practical guides and scoring systems, offering guidance for identifying patients who benefit from autoimmune workup and immune therapy. While the mechanisms of transition from acute symptomatic seizures to autoimmune-associated epilepsy and refractory epilepsy remain largely unknown, the role of immunomodulatory therapy in treatment cannot be understated. This chapter delves into the clinical, laboratory, and imaging features of the most common autoimmune disorders causing seizures and epilepsy. Furthermore, it addresses diagnostic and treatment challenges, concluding with a brief note about Rasmussen encephalitis. Despite its long recognition as an autoimmune disorder, Rasmussen encephalitis is not commonly discussed in this category due to the absence of specific antibodies. This update aims to shed light on the classification, clinical features, and management of autoimmune-related seizures, emphasizing precise classification for tailored treatments.