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DNA Labs India

Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test

Short Name: Anti-NMDA Antibody Test

Also known as: NMDA Receptor Antibody Test, Anti-Glutamate Receptor Antibody Test, Autoimmune Encephalitis Antibody Test

Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,500. Uses Cell Based Assay, Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically available same day if the sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Antibody Detection Test🏠 Home Collection

Overview

The Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test is used for diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis, particularly anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, guiding treatment decisions by identifying the specific autoimmune condition, and monitoring treatment effectiveness and disease progression.

Test Code
150
Price
₹8,500
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports are typically available same day if the sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.
Fasting Required
Yes (8 hours)
Method
Cell Based Assay, Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

Overnight fasting is preferred for at least 8 hours before sample collection to ensure accurate results.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample of 2 mL will be drawn from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique with aseptic precautions.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to prevent bleeding and avoid heavy lifting with that arm for a few hours.

Timeline: Reports are typically available same day if the sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Ensure overnight fasting and inform your doctor about any medications or recent health issues.
2
During the Test:The blood draw procedure typically takes a few minutes with minimal discomfort.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities immediately, but avoid strenuous exercise with the punctured arm for a short period.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test is used for diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis, particularly anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, guiding treatment decisions by identifying the specific autoimmune condition, and monitoring treatment effectiveness and disease progression.

How to Prepare

  • Fast overnight (8-12 hours) before the test
  • Sample collected in a Serum Separator Tube (SST)
  • Maintain sample at refrigerated or frozen temperature during transport

Doctor's Notes

"This test is essential for diagnosing anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, a treatable autoimmune condition, and guides appropriate immunotherapy decisions."

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 6 hours
Refrigerator (2-8°C): 1 week
Frozen (-20°C): 2 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL)
  • Hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic samples
  • Improperly labeled or contaminated samples

Understanding Your Results

The test results indicate the presence or absence of antibodies against NMDA or glutamate receptors. A positive result suggests a high likelihood of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, while a negative result makes it less likely but does not rule it out entirely.
📊

Positive

Antibodies detected, indicating probable anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. Clinical correlation and further tests are recommended for confirmation and treatment planning.

📊

Negative

No antibodies detected. However, if symptoms persist, other causes should be explored, and repeat testing or additional diagnostics may be considered.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a neurologist immediately if you experience seizures, confusion, memory loss, or other neurological symptoms, or if test results are positive or inconclusive with persistent symptoms.

Limitations

  • False negatives can occur if antibody levels are low
  • Results must be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests
  • This test alone cannot confirm diagnosis without comprehensive clinical evaluation

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor pain or bruising at the puncture site
  • Rare risk of infection or fainting
  • No significant long-term risks associated with the test

Interfering Factors

  • Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may affect accuracy
  • Recent immunizations or infections could potentially influence antibody levels
  • Use of immunosuppressive medications may alter results

Compare With Similar Tests

TestAnti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum TestMRI BrainElectroencephalogram (EEG)Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) AnalysisAntinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test
ComparisonAnti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum TestImaging test to detect brain inflammation or abnormalities, often used alongside antibody tests for comprehensive diagnosis.Measures brain electrical activity to identify seizure patterns, complementing antibody test results.Examines fluid surrounding the brain for signs of infection or inflammation, useful when serum tests are inconclusive.General autoimmune screening test; less specific for anti-NMDA encephalitis but may be part of broader evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Anti NMDA Receptor / Anti-Glutamate Antibody Serum Test?
It is a blood test that detects antibodies against NMDA and glutamate receptors, used to diagnose autoimmune encephalitis, a condition causing brain inflammation.
Why is this test recommended?
This test is recommended for individuals with symptoms like seizures, confusion, memory loss, or mood changes, which may indicate anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis.
How should I prepare for the test?
Overnight fasting for 8-12 hours is preferred. Avoid eating or drinking anything except water before the test.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies, suggesting a high probability of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. Further evaluation by a neurologist is necessary.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no antibodies were detected, but it does not completely rule out the condition if symptoms persist. Consult your doctor for further advice.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. Contact your insurance company to verify if this test is covered under your policy.
What are the risks of this test?
The risks are minimal and similar to any blood draw, such as slight pain, bruising, or rarely, infection.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available same day if the sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday at DNA Labs India.
Can this test be done at home?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test across many cities in India for convenience.
What other tests might be needed alongside this one?
Often, tests like MRI Brain, EEG, or cerebrospinal fluid analysis are performed alongside to confirm diagnosis and assess disease extent.
Is fasting mandatory for this test?
Overnight fasting is preferred to ensure accurate results, as it minimizes potential interference from recent food intake.
Who should I consult if my results are abnormal?
Consult a neurologist or a specialist in autoimmune diseases immediately for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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